As he edges closer towards a return to action, attacking midfielder Lesedi Kapinga has received word of support from an Orlando Pirates legend.
Pirates confirmed at the end of November that Kapinga had recovered from a hamstring injury and had returned to fill training.
News that would come as a relief for a player who had joined the Buccaneers as a Deadline Day signing, looking to revive their career after a less than fruitful spell at Mamelodi Sundowns.
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In three seasons with the Brazilians, Kapinga made just 39 appearances, registering four goals and seven assists. Since joining the Sea Robbers, Kapinga has yet to get in his stride and has been hampered by injuries.
However, at 28 years old, Bucs legend Shakes Gwabeni believes the attacking midfielder still has a lot to offer.
"Well, he has just arrived. He has not gotten a chance yet so it’s too soon to say keep or sell," Gwabeni told KickOff.
"For me, he is a good player and worth keeping. I know Pirates right now, have enough players in that attacking midfielder role, but I think Kapinga can still contribute there at his age."
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Kapinga also has the backing of club head coach Jose Riveiro, although the Spaniard warned that Kapinga would have to be ready to compete in a star-studded squad.
"I know he (Kapinga) is a good human, first of all. He's a good guy, a professional football player," Riveiro said of the attacking midfielder player at the launch of the 2023-24 DStv Premiership season.
"I also know what everybody knows — that he's a talented player with the capacity to help the team play better. From now he's one more player in the group like everybody else and has the same opportunities and chances to make an impact. Hopefully, he'll adapt soon."
Meanwhile, Pirates host Stellenbosch on Friday at Orlando Stadium. Kick-off is at 20:00.
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