Abdeslam Ouaddou reacts to Ndah, Sesane return | OneFootball

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Ouaddou on Ndah, Sesane comeback

Photo: Abdeslam Ouaddou

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has reacted to the return of defenders Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane after a prolonged spell on the sidelines.

The Nigerian center-back suffered a Tibia and Fibula fracture at the beginning of last season, while the South African international suffered an Achillies Tendon rupture in February 2025.

Both defenders returned to action this past Saturday as the Soweto giants dispatched the PSL Carling All-Stars team to clinch the Carling Cup at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Ouaddou says they players' availability for selection is crucial, and is braced for a selection headache as he urged the duo to command a regular place in the starting XI.

“It was so important for them, also important for us. We have a big squad that unfortunately, it's difficult for me to make some choices because I can put only 11 players on the team sheet and if Mr. [Gianni] Infantino changes the law in the next years or next few months, it will be easier for me to put more players,” he said.

"But they always know that they are very important for me. All these players you have seen today [Saturday] are working hard in training, close communication with them, to tell them that they are very important for us and maybe at the end of the season some of these players you have seen can help us to be successful.

"So, they have been professional for a long time and today I had the opportunity to give them a chance and they showed [their qualities] in a fantastic way. I'm very happy for them and they need to continue like that to challenge for a regular place.

Meanwhile, the former Morocco international has guided Pirates to three domestic cup titles since taking over from Jose Riveiro during the off-season.