Leal insists that they is depth at Pirates

Orlando Pirates coach Julio Leal has refused to accept that the injury of key players will reduce his side’s chances of victory against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.

Speedy winger Tlou Segolela and midfielder Isaac Chansa are unlikely to feature for Bucs, while strikers Benni McCarthy and Thulasizwe Mbuyane will have to pass late fitness tests.

But Leal, who will be eager to bounce back from last weekend’s 2-1 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs, says he has enough depth in his side to field a formidable side capable of inflicting damage on Sundowns.

“We are learning to cope with injuries and this will help us as we go forward. I am not too worried about the injuries of some of the key players because we have a lot of depth in the side,” Leal says.

“Players who have taken the place of those who are injured have not disappointed. For some of them it will be a chance to win a permanent place in the starting line-up.

"All the players are aware of the importance of this match," adds the Brazilian mentor.