Orlando Pirates have received good news on the injury front, with star striker Gabadinho Mhango returning to training.
The Malawian international has been out of action since hobbling off in the one-all draw at home to Stellenbosch in late October.
Gabadinho Mhango returns to training
Having welcomed another key marksman back from injury in the form of Tshegofatso Mabasa, the Buccaneers announced on Monday that the Golden Boot winner could be in contention for a spot in the team when they host Baroka on Wednesday night.
The latest developments are a timely boost for the Soweto Giants, who are beginning to hit their straps with five wins in a many of their most recent matches across competitions.
After impressing in his debut season for the club – netting 16 times in the league to finish as joint top-scorer – Mhango already has a goal to his name in his two matches so far, as he found the net from the penalty spot against AmaZulu in Pirates’ league opener.
Orlando Pirates boast healthy strike force
His return presents welcome headaches for Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer, who started with Zakhele Lepasa up front in the 2-1 win against Supersport United over the weekend.
The 23-year-old was on the scoresheet against Matsatsansa at Orlando Stadium, with his replacement Mabasa netting the late winner.
The Buccaneers have also brought Congolese marksman Jean-Marc Makusu Mundele to bolster their forward options in a season where they will also be competing in the Caf Confederations Cup.
The German mentor is, however, savouring the challenge come selection time.
“We have so many players that we can choose for games. It is a competition and that is what we want, for players to fight for a place in the squad and the starting line-up. In this time, we are not ready for all players and we know it,” Zinnbauer told the media over the weekend.
Jose Zinnbauer, Orlando Pirates
Meanwhile, star midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch is still out after being ruled out for up to five weeks.
