Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has welcomed a timely boost to his squad, confirming the return of striker Evidence Makgopa and midfielder Thalente Mbatha to full training after recent injury setbacks.

The Buccaneers will look to bounce back and return to winning ways in the Betway Premiership when they take on Kaizer Chiefs in the first Soweto derby of the season.

Pirates will come into this encounter sitting in second place on the table, level on 38 points with log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

The duo’s recovery strengthens the squad depth as the Buccaneers look to maintain momentum in the crucial stages of the season.

“About Makgopa, he has been out for nearly three weeks but we are very happy and the group is very happy to welcome him back,” said Ouaddou.

“He is back at training and is feeling very well so it is one more player to add in our group. Mbatha as well, I’m very happy that he has joined the group.

“There have been a lot of questions around him but he was injured as well and I’m happy to have him in the group.”