Orlando Pirates are facing an injury crises ahead of their Carling Knockout Cup match against Magesi FC on Saturday due to several key absences.
Olisa Ndah remains sidelined with a long-term injury, while Thalente Mbatha is still out after sustaining an injury during the MTN8 final victory over Stellenbosch.
Bandile Shandu has resumed full training with the team, but Tapelo Xoki is also expected to return to training soon.
Pirates wrote on their website: “Ndah has been ruled out for the rest of the year.
“Mbatha continues to undergo rehabilitation regarding the injury he suffered in Pirates 3-1 win over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8. The Bucs medical team will continue to monitor his progress this week before clearing him to return to full training.
Shandu “has started full training with the team. He has also begun playing 35 minutes for friendly matches. This load will increase every week until he reaches 90 minutes without feeling any discomfort.
Xoki “has been cleared to return to full training , with focus on agility drills before being allowed to participate in friendly matches.
Goodman Mosele “is currently undergoing intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started jogging and the team has slowly introduced heavy loaded weight training
Zakhele Lepasa “is also currently undergoing intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started running on the field and strength training.
Thabiso Lebitso “started running as part of his progression. Scheduled to start plyometric training as of next week. Sandile Mthethwa sustained an abdominal muscle strain during training. He is attending rehabilitation sessions with a visceral therapist that deals with this type of injuries.
And Ethan Visagie “sustained a right ankle sprain during training. Post orthopaedic consultation; conservative treatment was suggested as strategy for his recovery”.