Makola back, but Kutumela is forced out

As Orlando Pirates return to action with a clash against Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday, coach Micho Sredojevic will be happy that midfielder Mpho Makola (right) has been cleared to get back into action after an injury lay-off.

The midfielder injured his back during a league match against Ajax Cape Town in January, but is now available again for selection. Sredojevic’s squad, however, has been hit by an injury to forward Thabiso Kutumela, who has sustained an ankle injury, adding to a sick room that also includes new Zambian striker Augustine Mulenga, Abbubaker Mobara, Diamond Thopola and Thabo Qalinge.

“In the midst of the disappointing news surrounding Mulenga and Kutumela, there has been some positive news coming out of the Bucs camp – midfielder Makola has been cleared to train fully with the rest of the team,” Pirates confirmed on their website.

The Buccaneers head into this game with their heads held high despite the injuries. They are third in the league with 33 points, just six points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who are on 39 points after 21 matches.

Their good form was recognised by the Absa Premiership earlier this week with head coach Sredojevic being named the league’s Coach-of-the-Month for January.

The Chilli Boys, meanwhile, will be hoping Linda Mtambo recovers in time for them to face Pirates after the midfielder was stretchered off during the club’s clash with Baroka FC last weekend.