Mbule's absence had raised questions among supporters after the midfielder appeared to be edging closer to regular involvement again. The 27-year-old had previously been spotted in the stands alongside players not included in the matchday squad before eventually making his return to action against Marumo Gallants.

With Pirates navigating a demanding schedule - including a clash against Mamelodi Sundowns - many fans expected the technically gifted midfielder, nicknamed "Master Chef", to feature prominently. However, Mbule was an unused substitute in the Buccaneers' 2-1 defeat to Sundowns.

His lack of minutes came as a surprise, particularly because Pirates were without midfielders Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Nduli at the time.

Mbule's absence from the matchday squad for the derby against Chiefs further fuelled speculation. The issue, however, went largely unnoticed after Pirates delivered a commanding performance to claim a 3-0 victory over their arch-rivals.

According to Makaab, the situation is straightforward and linked purely to the player's recovery process.

"Sipho is recovering from a small injury, he's back at training, he is working with a fitness trainer and doing his rehab," Makaab explained, as quoted by Soccer Laduma.

The CEO of Prosport International also pointed out that similar concerns had previously been raised when Mbatha was absent from Pirates' squads.

Makaab revealed that Mbatha had also been dealing with an injury before returning to action in the derby, where he was forced off with his knee strapped.

With Mbule now back training and progressing in his rehabilitation, Pirates supporters will be hopeful that the creative midfielder can soon return to full fitness and contribute to the Buccaneers' campaign in the closing stages of the season.

Mike Makaab clears up Sipho Mbule's Orlando Pirates absence