Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has denied knowledge of Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s reported move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, insisting the emerging defender remains part of his squad.
Mbokazi was absent from Tuesday’s 2-0 Betway Premiership win over Chippa United at Orlando Stadium, a result that saw Pirates draw level with Mamelodi Sundowns on 25 points at the top of the table.
The Buccaneers remain second on goal difference, but have a game in hand, having played 11 matches to Downs’ 12.
“The reason he was not in the team is because I rotate players,” Ouaddou said after the victory, which featured second-half goals from substitutes Evidence Makgopa and Oswin Appollis.
“I am not aware about this news. For me, Mbokazi is still in my group. He is one of the most important players in my squad. He is still with me, he is my player and that is it.”
The win also marked the return of Nigerian defender Olisah Ndah and midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula, who had both missed the start of the season through long-term injuries.
Makhaula replaced Thalente Mbatha after the hour mark, receiving rapturous applause from the Orlando Stadium crowd.
“When you have all these big names coming back to increase depth in the team, it makes it difficult for me to make choices, but I prefer it that way than not having enough players to choose from,” Ouaddou said.
“It is important to have Ndah and Makhaula back and I want to thank the medical department.
“When somebody is injured for a long time, you must work with them physically and mentally. The medical team did a fantastic job for us to be able to use Makhaula in this match. You could feel the love from the fans when he went on.”