Head coach Jose Rivero has shed some light into the the revival of midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula as Orlando Pirates defeated Polokwane City.
After escaping with a point against Mamelodi Sundowns in the first match of 2024, and demolishing Crystal Lake 6-0 in the Nedbank Cup round of 32, Pirates continued their run with a 1-0 victory over Polokwane City on Sunday at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
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The winning goal came from striker Evidence Makgopa and the match also marked a second consecutive start for midfielder Makhaula, the longest run of action the former AmaZulu man has enjoyed this season.
Before the start of the 2024 calendar year, the 34-year-old had made just four appearances this season.
Quizzed by journalists about the defensive midfielder’s sudden return to the starting line-up after the match, Riveiro was cryptic in his response.
"After the break [AFCON break] we started playing with Makhaula in one of the positions we have in the central midfield and he’s doing alright," Riveiro said
"But nobody earns a place here like I cannot say he [Makhaula] has finally earned his place. We have 36 players in the squad. All of them have quality, that’s why they came to the club.
"All of them are doing well, and then we have to play eleven in each of every game and put 20 to the list, and It’s not easy.
"So, everybody must keep pushing and not playing for themselves but playing for the club, making sure after the last game of the season, we can continue improving the history of this club.
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With Makhaula’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, only time will tell if the Spanish mentor may possibly be giving Makhaula a chance to earn his keep or an honourable farewell.
Meanwhile, Pirates return to action when they take on Cape Town Spurs at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening. Kick-off is at 19:30.
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