Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has provided an update on his fitness ahead of the MTN8 final, after he was taken off in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs over the weekend.
Maela came off during the first half of his side’s clash against the Buccaneers on Saturday with a knock and was part of training on Tuesday morning as the Soweto giants officially began their preparations for the final against AmaZulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday.
READ: 5 Lessons From The Soweto Derby
"People saw that I could not finish the game because of the niggle that I had, but we are still busy with the team doctors. We are still busy with the physios, so yeah, it's still early to tell. I mean, I feel good and I feel confident but we will see as the week goes by," Maela said during a MTN8 press conference at Rand Stadium on Tuesday morning.
After the press conference, Maela got involved in training with the team, and looked as though the niggle was not giving him problems, but the club will continue to monitor the situation as they hope to have their trusted captain in defence for the crucial encounter.
READ: Pirates' Cup Final Goalkeeper Conundrum
Pirates, meanwhile, still have veteran striker Ndumiso Mabena training with the side. Mabena parted ways with Royal AM and is looking to make a return, though it's unclear at this stage if the Buccaneers will give him an opportunity.
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