Where is Sipho Mbule? Agent reveals reason for Master Chef's absence
Since the Africa Cup of Nations ended, Sipho Mbule has struggled for regular game time at Orlando Pirates.
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Sipho Mbule’s agent has revealed the real reason the Orlando Pirates midfielder missed last weekend’s Soweto derby win over Kaizer Chiefs and Wednesday night’s victory against Polokwane City.
Ezimnyama Ngenkani arrived at FNB Stadium on Saturday and plundered all three points thanks to a convincing 3-0 win. Mbule’s absence was one of the talking points after the match, and his continued absence against Polokwane City led to further questions.
Mbule’s agent, Mike Makaab of Prosport International, clarified the situation.
"Sipho is recovering from a small injury, he's back at training, he is working with a fitness trainer and doing his rehab," Makaab was quoted by Soccer Laduma.
According to Makaab, there was nothing more to Mbule’s absence after questions were raised following the derby.
"The same question was asked of me about Thalente Mbatha, and I said Thalente had picked up an injury, and you know it's strange that when I say things, sometimes people think I'm hiding something.
"Thalente also picked up an injury. You saw that he played against Chiefs and had to come off; his knee was strapped, but he has progressed nicely and hopefully he is over the niggle," the agent said.
Mbule joined Mamelodi Sundowns at the beginning of the season after a difficult spell with the champions that was marred by poor discipline. Early on, he did enough to convince Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos to bring him back into the national team fold, but since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations he has seen limited game time for the Sea Robbers.
With Broos set to begin preparations for the World Cup in North America, Mbule will be hoping to regain full fitness and force his way back into the Pirates starting line-up sooner rather than later.
IOL Sport