Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro says the time has come for fringe players to show why they’re part of his squad, including a 19-year-old DStv Diski Challenge star as he faces a defensive conundrum following Thabiso Sesane’s injury.

The Bucs Academy product has been an ever-present figure in the heart of the defense, forming solid partnerships with both Olisa Ndah and Nkosinathi Sibisi. Sesane has featured in 29 matches across all competitions this season.

However, the 24-year-old defender suffered a major setback after he was forced off after 18 minutes in Pirates’ 2-1 win over Sekhukhune United in the league. At the same time, Ndah is yet to make his return from a lengthy injury layoff but is making steady progress behind the scenes.

The injuries are a major blow to Riveiro, who has his side competing on all fronts this season. The Spanish mentor acknowledges the challenge of replacing the duo with the same quality as he admits players have different attributes.

“The disturbance [to the defense] is the right word. It’s more about looking at the player that’s getting injured, it’s a tough process for them, it’s an uncertain process for them to face a long period of absence – not playing football, it’s different components,” he said.

“So, for me, that’s the main concern to try and give them the right platform to come back as soon as possible [and] mentally still strong. For us as the technical staff, the next challenge is to replace that player with a guarantee.

“Every player is different, you cannot expect the same thing from different players but it’s always about trying to find the balance in the starting XI, try to find the balance in and out of possession and in terms of leadership. Every player has a say in the squad.”

While the absentees are a concern for the Soweto giants, they also present youngsters and infrequently used players with an opportunity to feature in the first-team, with the Bucs tactician calling on his charges to step up with games coming thick and fast.

In addition to senior players, the 49-year-old Celta Vigo native says he will be counting on DDC captain Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has been training with the first team for a while. Moreover, the emerging talent was named on the bench in the abandoned clash against Golden Arrows.

“There’s always time for everyone to show that there’s a reason why they are playing for Orlando Pirates, why they are part of our squad. It’s time for Tapelo [Xoki], Innocent [Maela], [Mbekezeli] Mbokazi,” Riveiro added.

“It’s time for all the players who are training well and are pushing and ready to play. Let’s see because we are going to play a huge amount of players in the next six weeks and everybody is going to be necessary.”

Pirates will host Cape Town City at Orlando Stadium in their next league outing on Saturday as they look to narrow the 12-point gap on Betway Premiership leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Riveiro’s troops have accumulated 33 points, having played three games less.