The extent of Thembinkosi Lorch’s injury has been revealed, with the club confirming he will not travel to Mpumalanga for Orlando Pirates’ next fixture.
On Sunday, Pirates travel to Mbombela Stadium to face TS Galaxy in a crucial DStv Premiership tie.
It’s a must-win encounter for the Buccaneers if they entertain hopes of finishing second and playing CAF Champions League football next season.
THE NATURE OF LORCH’S INJURY
But Coach Jose Riveiro must do without Lorch, who also missed the 2-1 win over Cape Town City last weekend.
The talented midfielder had just returned from a lengthy injury spell when he picked up the minor injury.
In a statement, the club said Thembinkosi Lorch “remains a doubtful starter for the clash in Mbombela and continues to be monitored, having picked up a knock to his hip.”
Riveiro will, however, take solace in that big defender Tapelo Xoki returns to action after missing the City tie.
The former AmaZulu defender recently got injured in the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal tie against Dondol Stars in Polokwane.
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According to the club’s medical report, Xoki will likely “be fit for selection ahead of Sunday’s league game away to TS Galaxy”.
The lanky defender was back in training this week after a head injury. In defence, Bandile Shandu and Craig Martin are back in contention for that right-back position.
BOOST FOR ORLANDO PIRATES
With just four matches left, the two will give Riveiro more options as he looks to finish second behind champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Shandu missed the last match due to illness, while Martin had a minor knock. Ghanaian goalkeeper Richard Ofori and Bienvenu Eva Nga also return from injury.
Fan favourite Vincent Pule is close to returning to full training alongside striker Ndumiso Mabena.
The duo is expected back on the pitch next week after recovering from knee injuries. Mabena has seen little action after his return to the club in January.