Luthuli moves closer to Orlando Pirates return after resuming training

Orlando Pirates striker Sifiso Luthuli is close to being considered for selection after returning to full first-team training, although he is still waiting for his first appearance of the season.

The 25-year-old has been working his way back into Abdeslam Ouaddou’s plans as Pirates manage several attacking considerations during the opening stages of the campaign. Much of the attention at the club has centred on new signing Sebastian Pedersen and the options available to head coach Ouaddou, but Luthuli has quietly strengthened his position behind the scenes.

His return could give Pirates another option in attack, particularly with Evidence Makgopa currently sidelined by injury. Luthuli has yet to feature for the Buccaneers this season, but his full involvement in first-team training places him in a stronger position to compete for a place.

Luthuli returns after Magesi loan

Luthuli spent the latter part of last season on loan at Magesi FC, where he gained experience in the Betway Premiership before returning to Soweto.

The spell was an opportunity for the striker to gain regular exposure, and he had already attracted the attention of Ouaddou before his return to Pirates. The manager has spoken positively about Luthuli’s qualities, including his capacity to play as a modern centre-forward.

That profile could prove useful to Pirates as they assess their attacking balance. The club have had to deal with injury concerns while also introducing Pedersen, who arrived from Norway and is settling into a new environment.

Luthuli’s progress therefore comes at a time when competition for attacking places is developing. Yanela Mbuthuma and Boitumelo Radiopane have both featured during the early weeks of the season and have offered encouraging signs, while Pedersen is another option for Ouaddou to consider.

Chance may come soon

People close to the situation believe Luthuli could be the next striker to receive an opportunity. His return to full training means he can now challenge more directly for selection, although the timing of his first appearance will remain a decision for Ouaddou.

The striker’s immediate prospects are also shaped by the fitness of the players ahead of him and the demands of Pirates’ schedule. With Makgopa unavailable, there is an opening for the club’s other forwards to establish themselves.

However, Pirates’ priority at present is their CAF Champions League campaign. The Buccaneers are due back in action on Saturday for the second leg of their preliminary-round tie against La Cure Waves.

They were held to a goalless draw by La Cure Waves in Port Louis last weekend, a match in which an additional attacking option such as Luthuli might have been useful. The result leaves the tie finely balanced as Pirates prepare for the return fixture.

Luthuli’s return to full first-team training does not guarantee an immediate debut, but it places him closer to a chance than he has been at any point this season. For now, the striker will continue competing for selection while Pirates focus on progressing in the CAF Champions League and managing their attacking resources.