Pirates Give Injury Updates On Lorch, Ndah & 6 Others

Orlando Pirates have given an in-depth injury update on the likes of Thembinkosi Lorch and Olisa Ndah, with the latter remaining sidelined, while has a chance to return against TS Galaxy.

The Buccaneers enter the game in fine form, having won seven games in a row, including their 5-4 penalty shootout win over Dondol Stars in the Nedbank Cup.

They have also won nine out of their last 11 DStv Premiership matches, which currently sees them in third place but if they win or draw Sunday’s match at Mbombela Stadium they will move back above SuperSport United, who are one point ahead of them on the log.

Ahead of the clash, Pirates had good news on several of their recently sidelined players, even though it remains to be seen whether Lorch will recover in time.

“Thembinkosi Lorch and Tapelo Xoki both sat out the Buccaneers’ 2-1 league win at home to Cape Town City over the weekend, with the defender not recovering in time for the clash after picking up a knock deep inside extra time during the marathon cup encounter against Dondol Stars in Polokwane,” the club stated.

“Meanwhile, the attacking midfielder was not considered for selection following a minor knock picked up in the build-up to the fixture at Orlando Stadium.

“According to the medical team, Xoki is likely to be fit for selection ahead of Sunday’s league game away to TS Galaxy, having returned to full training after suffering a head injury.

“Lorch, on the other hand, remains a doubtful starter for the clash in Mbombela and continues to be monitored, having picked up a knock to his hip.”

Meanwhile, Goodman Mosele and Olisa Ndah remain sidelined, while four other players have returned to be in contention.

“Also on the mend is midfielder Goodman Mosele, who has started light training but remains under rehab, while defender Olisa Ndah is still side-lined with a knee injury,” the club added.

“Four more First Team players have recently been discharged from the injury list and are back training fully with their teammates.

“Right-backs Bandile Shandu and Craig Martin are back to provide more depth in defence after recovering from illness and a slight knock, respectively. Both have recently resumed full training along with goalkeeper Richard Ofori and striker Bienvenu Eva Nga.

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“Meanwhile, Vincent Pule and striker Ndumiso Mabena are expected to be back at full training during the course of the week after both were sidelined by knee injuries.

“Also on the mend is midfielder Goodman Mosele, who has started light training but remains under rehab, while defender Olisa Ndah is still side-lined with a knee injury.”

Pirates sit in third place, Galaxy find themselves in 11th with 31 points – just two behind the top eight.