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Qalinge, Chabalala Bucs' only injury concerns

Cape Town - Apart from defender Justice Chabalala and winger Thabo Qalinge, the Orlando Pirates squad is fit and firing on all cylinders.

The Buccaneers are in for a busy fixture schedule and have three games in the space of a week as they take on Platinum Stars (January 27) and Ajax Cape Town (January 31) away from home, before hosting Maritzburg United on February 3.

According to the Pirates website, coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic's squad is looking in good shape ahead of this hectic period, with only two players nursing injuries.

"Fortunately for the Buccaneers, there is little to worry about in terms of long term injuries with defender Justice Chabalala and midfielder Thabo Qalinge the only major concerns ahead of the match on Saturday," read a statement on their website.

"Chabalala is currently nursing an ankle injury and is still undergoing physiotherapy while Qalinge, is gradually making his return to full fitness. 

"The skilful 26-year old is still working with the Strength and Conditioning team while he awaits report from specialist to give him the green light to start full training with the rest of the team."

Bucs have claimed seven points from their last three outings, getting a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Polokwane City in their most recent match, thanks to an 86th-minute strike by teenage marksman Lyle Foster.

The Soweto giants lie in sixth position, seven points behind pace-setters Mamelodi Sundowns with 12 league matches to play.

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