Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has opened up on injury woes and missing out on Bafana Bafana action with the Afcon on the horizon.
The 31-year-old has endured a frustrating start to the season, making just seven appearances across all competitions for The Buccaneers so far and only three were from the starting line-up.
READ | Pule applauds Pirates youngsters
Maela, who has been the preferred first-choice left-back by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, has also missed out on the latest national team selection just two months before the Afcon, with Aubrey Modiba taking up the role and Golden Arrows' Bradly Cross called up as well.
Speaking to media at the Adidas store activation in Maponya Mall, Maela provided an update on his recovery and shed light on his time by the sidelines.
"It's disappointing to go through what I've been going through but it's an opportunity for me to come back stronger and make sure that when I do come back, I perform to the level I know," Maela told journalists.
"Yes, I have missed out on a few matches and the inclusion in the national team also, considering that the Africa Cup of nation is around the corner but look I am confident, I'm busy doing rehab at the moment and I'm confident that I will be back and I will be stronger.
"These things happen, it's football, you can't predict when it happens you just have to make sure that you come back strong."
Innocent Maela is a necessary player for Bafana Bafana. Solid! pic.twitter.com/Nd0TbQ2MHB
— Cellular® (@Cellular_jnr) March 29, 2023
ALSO READ | Sundowns stars receive praise from Benin coach after Bafana win
"It's not the first time this is happened so I've had an operation before in the past and I know that the support structure is very important to help you with your mental health and make sure that you stay in the right space."
"it's not easy, I have to say, it's not easy but with me personally, I've been blessed to have a good structure. My family have been there, my friends and also my teammates have been supporting me.
"So I'm confident that I will come back even stronger."
Pirates return to action when they face Richards Bay on Saturday at King Zwelithini Stadium. Kick-off is at 15:00.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!