Bafana Bafana have explained why Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa has withdrawn from the squad ahead of Tuesday's clash against Ivory Coast.
The Buccaneers striker was introduced in the second half of the goalless draw against Ewsatini on Friday evening.
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However, Lepasa will play no part in Tuesday's clash against the Elephants after team doctor Thabo Maleka revealed the player is dealing with a knee injury.
"Lepasa is struggling with a left knee overuse injury, which could have been exacerbated again by the recent games and also trainings," Maleka told SAFA media.
"On the eve of travelling, the injury became worse and therefore necessitated that he does get some investigation to actually find the degree or severity of injury in order to inform treatment.
"He is already in the care of the medical team [Pirates], they have already started necessary treatment that is needed for that particular injury that he's having and that is why he's not with us today."
Other than Lepasa's injury, Maleka added that there is a clean bill of health ahead of the second friendly, which included good news for goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
"So far we have a good bill of health. Even our captain is recovering very well, so that gives the coach depth in terms of who to play and how, which is a good thing in terms of fitness levels," he added.
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