By Linda Ximba
Is Thembinkosi Lorch on his way out of Orlando Pirates? That’s the question Pirates fans are asking following the player’s continued absence from the pitch.
The Bafana Bafana player has been out of action for two months with Pirates releasing a statement that he is carrying an injury picked up last October.
With Lorch not seen near the Pirates bench or sitting on the stands with fellow players during the Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 defeat last Friday, coach Jose Riveiro was asked about the player’s latest health status after the game.
Possibly following strict instructions from management, Riveiro decided to say very little about Lorch’s injury and when he is expected to return to the team.
“I don’t speak about injured players or individual players. From the beginning of the season, it is not my role to talk about players who are not available,” said Riveiro.
“Is there any tool to measure how much it affects us if someone is not playing for the team? I cannot answer that question.”
But several sources revealed that both parties have held talks regarding the possible transfer during this current January transfer window.
Pirates are said to want to cash in on his transfer now since his current deal with them runs out at the end of June this year.
Lorch’s agent, Jazzman Mahlakgane, would not be drawn into discussing the player’s future.
“As far as I know, he’s still very much part of Pirates. Should there be any movements, the club will officially issue a statement regarding his future,” he told Scrolla.Africa.
The 29-year-old attacking midfielder has managed to play just five times this season with his last appearance being in a goalless draw against SuperSport United.
Pictured above: Thembinkosi Lorch
Image source: Orlando Pirates
