Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why Oswin Appollis has recently been getting less playing time, making it clear that the decision is not related to his performances but is aimed at protecting the player from injuries.

The Bafana Bafana international has spent more time on the bench in recent matches, raising questions among Orlando Pirates supporters, especially considering his important role in the team's success last season.

However, Ouaddou has dismissed suggestions that there is a problem involving the attacker. The coach explained that Pirates are carefully managing Appollis' playing time to keep him fit for the important matches coming up later in the season.

Speaking after Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United 1-0 in their Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final on Saturday, the Moroccan coach referred to Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi to explain the club's decision.

Ouaddou explained that even top European clubs manage the playing time of their key players to reduce the risk of injuries and ensure they remain available throughout the season.

"I already explained the situation of Appollis. You see, in Paris Saint-Germain now, Luis Enrique said that he's going to play [Achraf] Hakimi in January.

"Why? Because they have seen with the numbers that this guy maybe he risks injuries and they don't want to lose him. It's the same for us. There is nothing about around Appollis.

"People must stop to create any polemics. Appollis is one of our best players, and we want to protect him for the most important games," Ouaddou explained.

The coach's explanation should help clear up the questions surrounding Appollis, who has been an important player for Pirates since joining the club from Polokwane City.

The attacker enjoyed an impressive first season with the Buccaneers, quickly establishing himself as one of their key attacking players and playing an important role in the team's domestic success.

His busy schedule, which also included international matches with Bafana Bafana, is believed to be one of the reasons Pirates have decided to manage his playing time carefully.

Meanwhile, Pirates are still competing in several competitions, making it important for Ouaddou and his technical team to manage the squad properly and keep their key players fit.

The latest comments should reassure Pirates supporters that Appollis remains an important part of the coach's plans.

His reduced playing time does not suggest that the coach has lost confidence in him or that there are problems between the player and the club. Instead, Pirates are simply trying to protect one of their most important attacking players.

With several important matches still ahead, the Buccaneers will hope their decision to manage Appollis' workload helps keep him fit and ready whenever the team needs him.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2119105498905461080?a=x2KS-SRc9KK9VGTNUqQ&s=19