Orlando Pirates will resume their Betway Premiership next weekend, looking to consolidate their position at the top.
Despite suffering back-to-back defeats in their opening league games, the Buccaneers fought back to win nine out of their 10 games, which sees them top of the log.
With their players well rested and new signings blending in, the Pirates could end their 14-year league drought at the end of the season.
During the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) break, the Buccaneers sold Mbekezeli Mbokazi to Chicago Fire. The US-based outfit reportedly wanted to sign another Orlando Pirates star but the Soweto giants turned down their offer.
The player Chicago Fire were interested in is Oswin Appollis. The 24-year-old winger joined the Buccaneers from Polokwane City in July and has been their best player this season.
He played every match during Bafana’s AFCON, which saw them crash out in the last 16 against Cameroon.
Having been given a break, Appollis was seen training with the squad on Tuesday and should be available against Sekhukhune United.
Orlando Pirates injury concerns
So far, the only injury reported in camp is that of Selaelo Rasebotja. The 24-year-old has not touched a ball this season due to injury, but could be ready around March.
“Right now, I am at a stage where I am slowly being integrated into full training,” Rasebotja responded when asked about his recovery by KickOff.
“It’s also just part of my rehab. After being out of action for such a long time, to slowly getting back to full-team training.”
According to Soccer Laduma, Orlando Pirates may extend Olisa Ndah’s contract. The Nigerian defender is currently in the last six months of his deal with the Buccaneers but could sign a pre-contract if he receives an offer he cannot refuse.
Ndah joined Orlando Pirates in 2021 and quickly became a key defender for the team. However, injuries have since limited his playing time over the past two seasons.