Bucs midweek 2-0 home victory over Chippa United saw the long-awaited comebacks of Makhehleni Makhaula and Olisa Ndah, both sidelined for extended periods. Ouaddou praised the medical team for their work and highlighted how the return of these players lifts the squad's quality and morale.

"I am a happy coach when you have players back and growing numbers in your team," said Ouaddou.

"It's difficult to make choices, but I prefer a nice headache when selecting players. When someone has been injured for a long time, you need to work with them mentally and treat them properly. The medical team did a fantastic job to get them ready for this."

The Bucs coach revealed that Makhaula, who is the reigning PSL Midfielder of the Season, personally reassured him of his readiness to get back into action.

"He came to see me over the past three weeks, squeezed my hand and said, ‘Coach, I am here and back.' That mindset, combined with the love from the fans, is invaluable," Ouaddou added.

Pirates' consistency this season has been impressive, winning eight of their nine games across all competitions. Their only slip was a draw against Mamelodi Sundowns, keeping them neck and neck with the log leaders on 25 points. A win over Durban City in their game in hand on Saturday could see them top the table.

Beyond the league, Pirates are chasing silverware, having already claimed their fourth consecutive MTN8 title and reaching the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants next Saturday at New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Ouaddou insists that results matter, but performance remains equally important in order to make the fans happy.

"People come to watch a show. The way you deliver the game — the performance and the results — is very important. With our players back, we have the tools to do both," he concluded.

Lehlohonolo Seema placed on special leave - report