Orlando Pirates' hierarchy is set to decide on the future of midfielder Ntsako Neverdie Makhubela in the upcoming transfer window.
Makhubela has been a notable absentee in the Buccaneers squad since the start of the season. The midfielder has not been included in a single match-day squad for the Sea Robbers in the 22/23 DStv Premiership campaign and is understood to be open to either a loan or permanent move away from Mayfair in search of game time.
Makhubela came through the Orlando Pirates development programme before going on to make a name for himself at Lamontville Golden Arrows.
After establishing himself as one of the hottest properties in South African football, the diminutive winger was then roped back to the Buccaneers at the start of the 2021/22 season, but the reunion has been underwhelming.
He made 16 appearances last season, only nine were from the starting eleven. The winger also faces stiff competition for places with Vincent Pule, Deon Hotto and Thabiso Monyane, among others.
When asked about the 28-year-old's absence earlier this season, Riveiro said it was simply down to competition.
"About Neverdie [Makhubela], well, we can only take 20 players, 11 to the starting team and five substitutions, that's the math," Riveiro said at the tike
"We cannot take everyone. I try to take the ones that we feel, or I fee, will help us to win the game.
"So yes, that's the reason [for Makhubela's absence] and there is no other reason.
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The Buccaneers will either listen to offers for Makhubela in the January window or keep him as an option for the rest of the season as they look to unseat champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the fight for the DStv Premiership title.
That battle will resume when the sides meet once again on Friday, 30 December to kick start the second of the season.
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