Gaba back in training

South Africa-based Malawian forward Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango says his absence from his DStv Premiership club Orlando Pirates’ matches was due to an injury.

The Flames striker has not featured for the Buccaneers in the past eight matches amid speculation that his absence was linked to his recent off-field controversy splashed in South African tabloids.

But in an interview from his Johannesburg base yesterday, Mhango said: “I had an injury, but I am back in training now.”

Kickoff.com and goal.com also reported at the weekend that Mhango was among a number Pirates players on injury list.

Reads part of the report on kickoff.com: “The Buccaneers’ injury crisis worsened on Thursday after captain Happy Jele was forced to be substituted for Thulani Hlatshwayo in the second half of the club’s 1-1 draw against Royal AM.

“Jele becomes the latest in a string of casualties for Pirates this season and joins the likes of Thembinkosi Lorch, Innocent Maela, Zakhele Lepasa, Richard Ofori, Frank Mhango, Wayne Sandilands and Vincent Pule on the club’s injury list.”

On its part, goal.com reported that: “The Buccaneers are currently in the middle of an injury crisis and without key players.

“Goalkeeper Richard Ofori, Wayne Sandilands and Elson Sithole are all injured, leaving them with Diski Challenge [reserve side] gloveman [goalkeeper] Thutsane Kapono to deputise for Siyabonga Mpotshane.

“Apart from Pule and Lorch, the likes of Mhango, Innocent Maela and Zakhele Lepasa are also battling to regain their fitness.

“Mhango has not featured in their last eight games while Maela and Lepasa are expected back in December.”

The 28-year-old last featured on August 24 and Football Association of Malawi and Flames coach Meck Mwase recently expressed concern over his situation.