Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the club’s approach to managing Oswin Appollis’ game time, insisting that the winger remains an important part of his plans despite his recent absence from the starting line-up.
Appollis picked up an ankle knock during Pirates’ 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy on 13 October, which subsequently ruled him out of the CAF Champions League matches against Namibian side African Stars.
The 24-year-old was named on the bench for Pirates’ 2-0 victory over Milford on 27 October before making his return to action with a promising cameo in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.
His reduced involvement has prompted questions, but Ouaddou has stressed that the club’s approach is about protecting one of its most valuable attacking assets rather than questioning his quality or commitment.
“Appollis is a masterclass. He is one of our best players and one of the best players in South Africa. He is full of quality. But we must not forget that Appollis is human. He is not a robot,” Ouaddou explained.
The Pirates coach acknowledged the demands placed on the winger, particularly after an impressive debut campaign following his arrival from Polokwane City and his subsequent international commitments.
“He played a fantastic season in his first year at Pirates. He came from Polokwane, where a lot of things changed for him, and he managed to handle all those changes. He had a wonderful season. Straight away, he went to the World Cup and gave everything for his country.”
Ouaddou believes the physical and mental demands of professional football can eventually catch up with players, especially those who have little opportunity to recover between competitions.
Drawing from his own playing experience, the Moroccan coach said he understands the importance of managing players exposed to demanding schedules over consecutive seasons.
“I was a player. For six years in a row, I was playing World Cup qualifiers with Morocco, AFCON qualifiers and, when I went to Europe, I played in the Europa League and the league. I understand what that feels like,” he added.
The coach was adamant that Pirates are taking a protective approach towards Appollis, whom he considers a valuable asset to the club.
“We are protecting our diamond because we know that if we protect him and give him this time, he will be important for us. We will benefit from the protection that we are giving him.”
Ouaddou also reassured supporters that Appollis will return to his best and that his reduced involvement should not be interpreted as a long-term concern.
“Soon, soon, you are going to see Appollis back. For me, he is somebody that I love, and I don’t want to burn him.”
The message from the Pirates coach is clear: the club would rather manage Appollis’ workload carefully than risk overworking a player who remains central to its ambitions.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
