Orlando Pirates Celebrate Paseka Mako's Return From Injury

Orlando Pirates have been bolstered by the return of Paseka Mako, with the defender receiving an emotional reintegration into Jose Riveiro's squad.

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The story

The Buccaneers confirmed the return of defender Paseka Mako, who has resumed training with the squad after a long injury layoff. 

As stated in a press release by the Soweto Giants, the 30-year-old has been out of action since suffering a knee ligament injury while on international duty for Bafana Bafana in a friendly match against Eswatini in October last year.

After undergoing successful surgery and rehabilitation, Mako was eased back into light training in August and has now been cleared to rejoin his teammates as they prepare to kickstart their Betway Premiership season against Chippa United.

Mako, who is a popular member of the Bucs change-room, received some kind words from teammates Thapelo Xoki and club captain, Innocent Maela.

"Paseka has been injured for some time now. Sometimes, when you're injured, you face a lot of challenges and you need the support from the people that are close to you. I think [Mako's recovery] shows that if you dedicate yourself to the task that's in front of you, anything is possible. We are happy that he's back, he's training again with us," said Maela, who took the opportunity to encourage the players in the treatment room:

"This goes to all the injured players, you are not alone. Talking from experience, I know it's tough mentally and you feel like you are being left behind, you have doubts and insecurities but it's possible. Just keep going and taking each day as it comes and you will be fine, you will come back do what you do best."

Xoki reserved special words for his teammate Mako, noting: "It's tough, this is his second injury he's had to overcome. It drives us to push in our own processes, but yeah, it says a lot about the individual. Paseka, you are strong. You are an inspiration to all of us."

The club shared a video chronicling Mako's tough rehabilitation journey, with the players getting a view of what Mako has had to endure in his recovery with the club's Physiotherapist Kutlwano Molefe.

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Watch below, with Mako being presented with a gift and a signed Pirates Home jersey from his teammates and coaches:

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