Orlando Pirates have confirmed that midfielder Thabo Qalinge is nearing a return to action after receiving clearance from the club’s physiotherapist.

The Soweto giants released a statement on their official website, publicising progress reports regarding their injured players.

‘Diamond Thopola: Suffered a quad strain in the Nedbank Cup match against Ajax Cape Town,’ the statement read.

‘He is currently receiving treatment and will continue to undergo physiotherapy for the next couple of days.

‘Gladwin Shitolo: Aggravated an ankle injury in the 2-0 win over Ajax and is also receiving treatment.

‘Mpho Makola: Will start running today to assess his readiness before being cleared to undergo full training.

‘Makola has been out for over a week since injuring his back in the league match against the Urban Warriors.

‘Thabo Qalinge: Good news for Qalinge and the Ghost is that he is one step closer to making a full recovery following his clearance from physio.

‘He has since been given the green light to start his strength and conditioning program.

‘Abbubaker Mobara: Mobara is nearing full recovery from his groin injury.

‘He is still experiencing some level of discomfort and pain. The Bucs Medical Team will continue to assess his situation,’ the statement concluded.

Pirates’ next assignment sees them face Chippa United in a league encounter scheduled to be played at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Sunday, 25 February 2018.