Orlando Pirates will be without defender Olisa Ndah for the rest of the year after the Nigerian suffered a fracture in their PSL match against Polokwane City on September 24.
Ndah has been a key figure for Pirates this season, playing in central defence alongside Thabiso Sesane while captaining the side, but will now have to do without him for an extended period.
The Nigerian pulled up in the first half of their 3-0 win over Polokwane last month and missed the MTN8 final win against Stellenbosch FC where Nkosinathi Sibisi slotted in alongside Sesane.
How long will Ndah be out?
“Unfortunately, the Buccaneers will be without key defender Olisa Ndah, who faces an extended period on the sidelines,” Pirates said, while providing an injury update on the squad.
“The Nigerian international who missed out on playing the MTN8 final after suffering an injury in the league match against Polokwane City, is expected to be out on the sidelines for a lengthy spell.
“The Bucs medical department has confirmed that the 26-year-old has suffered a tibia fracture. Due to the location and nature of the injury; the decision on surgery is not straightforward but based on this type of injury, Ndah has been ruled out for the rest of the year.”
Positive news on Mbatha
Pirates also revealed the extent of midfielder Thalente Mbatha’s injury and how long he will be out.
“Thalente Mbatha continues to undergo rehabilitation regarding the injury he suffered in Pirates’ 3-1 win over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8. The Bucs medical team will continue to monitor his progress this week before clearing him to return to full training,” the club said.
Who else is out at Pirates?
The Buccaneers would also weigh in on the other players who are out with injuries.
Bandile Shandu
“Has started full training with the team. He has also begun playing 35 minutes for friendly matches. This load will increase every week until he reaches 90 minutes without feeling any discomfort.”
Tapelo Xoki
“Has been cleared to return to full training, with focus on agility drills before being allowed to participate in friendly matches.”
Goodman Mosele
“Is currently undergoing an intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started jogging and the team has slowly introduced heavy loaded weight training.”
Zakhele Lepasa
“Like Mosele, Lepasa is also currently undergoing an intermediate rehabilitation phase. He has started running on the field and strength training.”
Thabiso Lebitso
“Has started running as part of his progression. Scheduled to start plyometric training as of next week. Continues with external biokinetic training to improve strength in hamstring and quadriceps.”
Sandile Mthethwa
“Sustained an abdominal muscle strain during training. He is attending rehabilitation sessions with a visceral therapist that deals with this type of injuries.”
Ethan Visagie
“Sustained a right ankle sprain during training. Post orthopedic consultation; conservative treatment was suggested as strategy for his recovery.”
Pirates return to action on Saturday when they host newly-promoted Magesi in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at Orlando Stadium.
