Two experienced Orlando Pirates players could miss the remainder of the season due to injury, with Tapelo Xoki and Sihle Nduli both sidelined.
Xoki has not featured for the Buccaneers since May last year and is increasingly unlikely to return before the campaign concludes.
The 31-year-old defender sustained injuries in a serious accident, and with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, his future at the club appears uncertain.
Nduli, meanwhile, picked up his injury during Pirates’ clash against Golden Arrows.
Ouaddou gives update on two Pirates players
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an update on the pair, confirming they are making progress in their recovery.
“Doing well. He’s [Nduli] in rehabilitation now,” Ouaddou said.
“It’s very important to stay close to these kind of players. Not only him, Tapelo as well. They are part of our senior players, very experienced players and they are doing well, both of them,” the Pirates coach added.
The Moroccan tactician said he was unsure if the duo would feature in the remaining seven matches.
“We see them now starting to come back onto the pitch. Some are working, others are getting ready. They are on track, but I cannot say we will see them before the end of the season because these have been very serious injuries.
“The most important thing is to ensure a proper rehabilitation so they can come back stronger.”
While both players are progressing, a return before the end of the season remains unlikely. Xoki, in particular, could be heading towards an exit, with Pirates well-stocked in defence.
Nduli, however, had been a key figure prior to his injury and could still have a role to play next season, especially if veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula opts to retire.
