Brilliant Khuzwayo closing in on Orlando Pirates debut

Orlando Pirates have been boosted by the return of two of their key players ahead of their clash with Chippa United.

Brilliant Khuzwayo has resumed full training with his Bucs team-mates alongside midfielder Vincent Pule.

Khuzwayo's return was confirmed by Pirates head coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic. 

“He has been cleared to work on his fitness and the level of his goalkeeping readiness to be competitive in that regard because now four goalkeepers are competition for one place and he is in contention,” Micho told the media.

The lanky goalkeeper is yet to make his debut for the Buccaneers having joined the club on a free transfer after parting ways with Kaizer Chiefs last season.

First-choice keeper Siyabonga Mpontshane picked up an injury during a warm-up ahead of the team's clash with AmaZulu earlier this month and he was replaced by Jackson Mabokgwane.

With Mpontshane still recovering, Khuzwayo could be set for his official debut against Chippa United or even better against his former club Amakhosi on October 27. 

Furthermore, Sredojevic revealed that winger Pule is also available for selection.  

The left-footed winger has recovered from an injury which he sustained ahead of Bafana Bafana's back-to-back 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers against Seychelles.

“Pule, who was not with the national team, has also recovered properly and he is also competiting for his place,” Sredojevic concluded. 

The encounter between Pirates and Chippa will take place at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday. Kick-off is at 20h15.