Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has made a big admission regarding the Monnapule Saleng situation at the club.
Pirates' chances of catching up with Betway Premiership runaway leaders were dented after playing to a goalless draw against 10-man Stellenbosch on Tuesday.
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As is the case when Bucs drop points, there is always a feeling they lack a little bit of extra quality in the final third.
They have been minus one of their influential attackers, Saleng, in all competitions, since early December last year, due to a legal matter cited by the 26-year-old's representatives.
After the goalless draw at Athlone Stadium, Riveiro admitted the winger's situation is not something they would like to be in but they have to make reality their friend.
"No one would like to be in this situation we're in when we started the season, but it is what it is," the Spaniard told the press in his post-match interview.
"It is something, as you know, (that) is not my role to speak so much about that issue. I just wish the best for both sides in this case.
"We don't... Whatever I say it's gonna be a big headline, right? But we're focused in the players that we have, that's it."
The 49-year-old tactician insisted Pirates have talented players who are hungry for opportunities as well.
"I think luckily we have a lot of talent in the team, we have players who are hungry wanting to use the opportunities, the opportunities are presented to them, players in every position capable to do the job.
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"We to live for the moment. The future for us is to get ready tomorrow for a big match (against Mamelodi Sundowns) over the weekend. There's no time to think so much about who is there, who is not," said Riveiro.
The Soweto giants will host the Chloorkop-based outfit in a league clash at FNB Stadium on Sunday (15:30).