Nduli credits Orlando Pirates support after serious ankle injury

Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli says the backing of his team-mates has helped him stay positive after suffering a grade three ankle ligament tear in the club’s league match against AmaZulu in August.

Nduli, 30, was initially expected to be out for about four months. However, he returned to light running and individual training drills after only five weeks, giving him hope of resuming full action soon.

The former Stellenbosch player thanked Orlando Pirates’ medical staff for responding quickly to the injury, while also acknowledging the support he received from those around him.

“It was painful, especially the way I got injured. But having my teammates and everyone around me supporting me helped me understand that these things happen in football and that I needed to stay strong,” Nduli said.

“What can I say? Sustaining injuries is part of football. The people close to me stood by my side and helped me remain strong during a difficult time.”

The latest setback follows another serious injury Nduli suffered in November last year during Orlando Pirates’ match against Golden Arrows. That problem also kept him out for several months.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Nduli said competition for places in midfield remains positive and that every player in the position is working towards the same objective.

“I think everyone who is there [is] the same; whoever is playing, it is like I am playing. We are one team,” he said.

Orlando Pirates were beaten 2-0 by Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at the weekend, losing the trophy they won last season.

Nduli believes the Buccaneers have enough strength in depth to improve during the remaining competition this campaign. He said the squad’s continuity, combined with the arrival of several new players, gives them confidence.

“It’s easy because the team is still the same and we added few new players, so we have a chance of doing more than we did last season.”