Thembinkosi Lorch had already left Orlando Pirates mentally.

Jose Riveiro, coach of Orlando Pirates instructs Thembinkosi Lorch during the DStv Premiership 2022/23 football match between Orlando Pirates and Swallows FC at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg on 06 August 2022 Photo: Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates v Marumo Gallants: Jose explains Lorch’s absence

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has explained his decision to drop Thembinkosi Lorch in Wednesday’s match against Marumo Gallants.

Thembinkosi Lorch had already left Orlando Pirates mentally.

Jose Riveiro, coach of Orlando Pirates instructs Thembinkosi Lorch during the DStv Premiership 2022/23 football match between Orlando Pirates and Swallows FC at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg on 06 August 2022 Photo: Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has explained his decision to drop Thembinkosi Lorch in Wednesday’s match against Marumo Gallants.

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Lorch had featured in each of the first five league matches for Pirates, including a substitute appearance against SuperSport United.

He came on 23 minutes before full-time in the 0-0 draw away to Matsatsantsa but perhaps the technical team felt he didn’t contribute enough.

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And on Wednesday, Riveiro excluded Lorch altogether while also ringing a few changes, especially upfront where Pirates have looked blunt.

Now, asked about his decision to leave out Lorch from the matchday squad for the Gallants clash, the Spaniard was rather coy in his reply.

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Orlando Pirates
Orlando Pirates midfielder Thembinkosi Lorch. Photo: OrlandoPiratesfc.co.za

RIVEIRO’S EXPLANATION ON LORCH’S ABSENCE FROM PIRATES VS GALLANTS MATCH

“He’s not ready for this game. That’s all I can say,” said Riveiro to SuperSport TV.

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