Richards Bay FC head coach Brandon Truter has explained why Sabelo Radebe, who is on loan from Kaizer Chiefs, is yet to feature for the side up to this point of the season.
Radebe completed a loan move to the KwaZulu Natal-based outfit in a bid to revive what had been turning into a stale career.
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Radebe was captain of Chiefs' DStv Diski Challenge side before being promoted to the first, where he has struggled to nail down regular playing time.
The 25-year-old completed a transfer deadline day loan move towards the end of September.
Speaking to media on Saturday, the Richards Bay coach explained what the midfielder's current challenge is.
"I think Sabelo is ready to come in now," Truter said.
"His fitness level is good, he's having game minutes now in our 11 versus 11 because our programme for the last three weeks was player recovery. There wasn't time to fit in training or friendly games, if you want to put it that way.
"So, we couldn't really see him in a really competitive environment. I think that's the only thing that's missing from him.
"He's been performing well, and he's very close to being selected as well.
"But at the same time, [Tlakusani] Mthethwa and Moses [Mthembu], who play in that position, have been our key players in that midfield, and they are doing well.
"So, it's about the opportunity coming along and giving it to him. He must just be patient for the opportunity, when it comes he must be ready."
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Meanwhile, the Natal Rich Boyz will turn their attention back to the Betway Premiership after the FIFA break having been knocked out of the Carling Knockout at the semi-final stage by Magesi FC.