Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has given an update on Thembinkosi Lorch and Sipho Mbule who have been nursing injuries since returning from the off-season.
Former Orlando Pirates attacking midfielder Lorch picked up an injury ahead of the Nedbank Cup final against his former side at Mbombela Stadium.
Mbule also carried a knock from the previous season.
The duo was not part of the team that travelled to Austria for pre-season camp and hasn’t been taking part in the friendly games and the MTN8 matches.
Mngqithi says both players are now close to being selected for match-day squad as they have been training with the team.
MNGQITHI – WHEN SHOULD SUNDOWNS FANS EXPECT TO SEE MBULE AND LORCH
“I think Lorch is close to the matchday squad, he has played in a friendly against Sekhukhune [United] and he's been training quite well,” said the coach.
“It was just unfortunate [on Thursday] he had a minor stiffness in his hamstring, which is why he pulled out of training early, but otherwise we are happy with the contribution he might make.
“We are also happy with the commitment and level of professionalism that he's been showing throughout, from the beginning of pre-season when he was still injured.
“Sipho [is] another player that has started full training, and it will only depend on the numbers and everything else, but he can be selected into the team – it's all up to him at this stage because I believe he's been training very well.”
Sundowns take on Mbabane Swallows in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 pm.
