RETURN OF THE SALENG? Monnapule Saleng's return to Orlando Pirates training sparks speculation about his future, amidst previous transfer drama and recent standout performance for Bafana Bafana. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
The Monnapule Saleng saga at Orlando Pirates may already be over, as he was seen training with the squad in footage released by the club over the weekend.
Pirates are due to take on MC Alger in their quarter-final first leg of the Caf Champions League at Stade du 5 Juillet in Algeria on Tuesday evening. Kick-off is at 9 p.m.
Saleng was seen on the training field and in the gym in the footage, which is a first this year.
For whatever reason (though there has been plenty of speculation), the 26-year-old winger has been a notable absentee from the Pirates’ lineup for almost four months now.
A couple of weeks ago, it surfaced that it might be due to a failed move abroad and dissatisfaction with his wages at the club.
The club, though, did not confirm this information.
After a move to Al Ahly reportedly fell through, Saleng chose not to attend training, which led to his exclusion from the team.
Interestingly though, Jose Riveiro spoke on the Saleng issue for the first time two weeks ago.
While Riveiro did not provide specific details about Saleng’s situation, his statements were quite revealing.
“I don't think about players when we win or when we don't win. I think no one would like to be in this situation when we started the season, but it is what it is,” said Riveiro.
“It’s something that, as you know, is not my role to speak so much about that issue. I just wish the best for both sides in this case, and we don't... whatever I say is going to be a big headline, right?
“But we focus on the place that we have. That's it. I think luckily we have a lot of talent in the team.
“We have players with a lot of hunger, wanting to use their opportunities. Like I said many times, the opportunities are presented there for them.
Saleng was last in action for Pirates on December 7 when they hosted Al Ahly in a Caf Champions League match at Orlando Stadium, which ended in a goalless draw.
Saleng, however, was selected for Bafana Bafana in their African Nations Championship (Chan) qualifier in Bloemfontein last week and, by all accounts, delivered a top performance.