Ouaddou Sends Strong Message About Appollis as Pirates Protect Their ‘Ferrari’

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an encouraging update on Oswin Appollis’ injury, but the Buccaneers are determined not to rush the influential winger back into action before he is fully ready.

The Bafana Bafana international has returned to training ahead of Pirates’ crucial CAF Champions League second-leg encounter against African Stars, offering a significant boost to the Soweto giants as they continue their pursuit of continental success.

Appollis raised concerns after being stretchered off during Pirates’ 3-0 Betway Premiership victory over TS Galaxy earlier this month. The attacker had contributed an assist for Boitumelo Radiopane’s opening goal before his evening was cut short by the injury scare.

However, the latest update suggests there is reason for optimism, with Ouaddou revealing that the winger has reported feeling no pain during his return to training.

The Moroccan tactician explained that the training session was designed to assess Appollis’ physical response, particularly his ability to sprint without experiencing discomfort.

“I’m happy that he was in training; the target was to see what he can do, in the warm-up, to see if he can sprint. It’s good news; he said he doesn’t feel pain,” Ouaddou explained, according to reports.

Despite the positive development, the Pirates coach made it clear that the club would not gamble with one of its most valuable attacking players.

Ouaddou used an interesting comparison to explain his approach, likening his key players to luxury sports cars that require careful maintenance to deliver consistently high performance.

“But you must understand Oswin is an important player of the team, they are all Ferraris, we need to take care of the engines very well. I don’t want to risk any players ahead of these important games, or burn anything,” he said.

The comparison highlights the importance of managing player fitness during a demanding period of the campaign. Pirates are competing on multiple fronts, making it essential for the technical team to balance immediate results with the long-term availability of its key performers.

The Buccaneers are preparing for the return leg against African Stars on Friday, October 23, at Orlando Amstel Arena. They enter the encounter with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg and will be determined to secure progress towards the CAF Champions League group stages.

A highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs on October 31 also awaits Pirates, adding further importance to their decisions regarding injured players.

Appollis’ pace, creativity and ability to trouble defenders make him an important component of Ouaddou’s attacking plans. His return would provide additional options, particularly during matches where Pirates need to break down organised defensive lines.

Nevertheless, the coach’s message is clear: the club will prioritise the winger’s recovery rather than rush him into competitive action.

For Pirates supporters, Appollis’ return to training is encouraging news. Whether he is ready to feature against African Stars remains uncertain, but Ouaddou is determined to ensure that his ‘Ferrari’ returns to full speed without risking another setback.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2113295617766174857