Soweto – Concerns about the future of Orlando Pirates striker Boitumelo Radiopane intensified this month after he disappeared from the matchday squad, prompting speculation that the club may look to send him out on loan in January.
Radiopane, 23, started the season as the preferred forward under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou but has since fallen behind other attackers in the squad. His last appearance came during the MTN8 first leg against Mamelodi Sundowns at Orlando Stadium on 16 August. Since then he has been watching from the sidelines.
His agent, Mike Makaab of ProSport International, moved to clarify the situation this week after rumours suggested the Buccaneers might be preparing to offload the young striker. Speaking to FARPost, Makaab explained that Radiopane’s absence has been due to injury rather than a change in the club’s plans.
He said Radiopane suffered an injury a few weeks ago and has only recently completed rehabilitation before returning to full training. Makaab said Pirates face a long season with a heavy schedule, and the striker remains part of Ouaddou’s plans. He added that Radiopane is expected to compete for his place once he regains full match fitness.
Radiopane came through the Pirates development system and previously spent two seasons on loan at Cape Town Spurs before returning to the Soweto giants.
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