Orlando Pirates coach, Jose Riveiro, has expressed warm feelings towards Thembinkosi Lorch ahead of their reunion in the Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday.
The beloved former Pirates player, selected for the Carling All-Stars XI, will be on the bench.
Riveiro's All-Star team will face Magesi FC, the Carling Knockout Cup champions, at Orlando Stadium on Saturday at 3:30 PM.
The Spanish coach hopes Lorch will enjoy his return to the stadium and hinted at potentially giving him some playing time.
Lorch's last appearance for Mamelodi Sundowns was on October 30th as a substitute in their 3-0 win over Cape Town City.
Despite making only six appearances across three competitions this season, he's managed to contribute a goal and an assist.
Riveiro and Lorch previously shared a successful partnership at Pirates. However, the 31-year-old's departure in January 2024 marked the end of their tenure together at the Soweto giants.
Riveiro acknowledged Lorch's ongoing battle with injuries and fitness challenges at both Pirates and Sundowns. He expressed hope that the weekend's match would provide an opportunity for Lorch to reignite his passion for the game.
‘WE’RE GOING TO MAKE HIM FEEL COMFORTABLE AGAIN’
“Happy to see him again, he’s an important player in South Africa. He’s been unlucky with injuries, and it’s an opportunity for him to find himself on the field,” Riveiro told the media.
“We’re going to try to make him feel comfortable again, and hopefully, he can enjoy some minutes. Everybody knows the type of player Lorch is. I’m going to be happy if he can have a good time in Orlando again.”
