Orlando Pirates medical team has ruled out midfielder Thabo Qalinge of playing any competitive football after suffering a hamstring injury.

The 24-year-old experienced tightness in him muscle last week and has since been nursed his way back to a competitive level while on camp in Potchefstroom for the pre-season.

Following a failed fitness test, and a scan this morning, the Club’s Dr. Matebula declared that Qalinge has been booked off the field in order to treat the injury, reports the Orlando Pirates website.

The former Mpumalanga Black Aces midfielder is saddened by the injury but is staying positive, insisting that ‘it’s just bad timing’.

‘It’s unfortunate to be injured at a time when the team is getting together to prepare for the season,’ Qalinge said.

‘Whenever there is a new coach and new players, we all want to impress so that we can be in contention for selection. This is just bad timing, but it’s also how the game goes.’

Qalinge insists he is confident of a fast return and he is working hard to rehabilitate himself back to match fitness.

‘I’m still feeling good, though, very positive. It’s a long season ahead so I’m working on being back as soon as possible. I’ve got a great team of specialists around me so I’m confident that I will be ok,’ he added.

‘Thank you to everyone that has been encouraging me in everything I’ve been doing so far, I’m working hard to be back for you guys as well.’

During the 2015-16 season, Qalinge featured in a total of 18 games for the Buccaneers while creating two assists in all competitions.