Despite suffering minor knocks, Orlando Pirates defenders Gladwin Shitolo and Innocent Maela will be available to face Golden Arrows, while other stars like Brilliant Khuzwayo are still on the mend, the club have confirmed.

Pirates will face Abafana Bes’thende on Wednesday evening at the Orlando Stadium and were boosted by the news that Maela and Shitolo will be available for selection.

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Fans of the Soweto giants, however, will still have to wait to see newly signed goalkeeper Khuzwayo as he ‘continues to undergo rehab. His injury shows signs of improvement with reduced inflammation evident,’ according to the club.

Khuzwayo is still to make his competitive debut after undergoing surgery to remove screws from his ankle prior to the start of the season.

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Thabo Qalinge is also close to a return as he has moved into the next stage in his rehabilitation and has already participated in a friendly match on 23 September 2018. The wing is yet to feature for the Buccaneers this season and his return will provide a timely boost ahead of a congested fixture schedule.

Pirates also confirmed that Ntsikelelo Nyauza is being assessed after a knock sustained against Baroka, while Thabiso Kutumela is currently under the care of the strength and conditioning team after picking up an injury in training.

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