Orlando Pirates has confirmed that Thabo Qalinge will remain sidelined for the rest of the year as he continues to nurse his way back to full fitness.

The 26-year-old midfielder continues to recover from a groin strain and is expected to miss the Buccaneers’ final Absa Premiership game of the year against Free State Stars on 16 December, according to the Pirates injury update.

Meanwhile, Nkosinathi Mthiyane will not be made available for selection and is still nursing his way back to full fitness after a quad injury.

Winger Thembinkosi Lorch though is nearing a full recovery from a hamstring strain which saw him miss the previous two matches.

However, it remains uncertain as to whether the 24-year-old will form part of the travelling squad as he is still experiencing pain and discomfort. He is expected to undergo a late fitness test ahead of the match against Stars.