Mosoetsa’s comments came after Siwelele triumphed over Polokwane City in the Carling Knockout round of 16, with Pule once again not included in the matchday roster. The winger had also been absent from Siwelele’s preceding Betway Premiership match against Rise and Shine.

This season, Pule has participated in seven matches for Siwelele, netting just one goal.

When questioned about Pule’s absence, Mosoetsa noted that the language used in discussing a player’s health can often lead to confusion, particularly for those unfamiliar with medical terms.

“At times, the terms we utilize can be misleading, especially since we are not experts in medicine. They might tell you that managing a player is necessary, but it’s not always clear if the player is injured or what the status is,” he explained.

“To me, if a player can’t participate, it means he is injured. However, sometimes the phrase used is about managing the player because he gives 100% effort, even while training on the sidelines.

“He should return soon, although I’m not completely certain what ‘soon’ really means.”

In the meantime, Mosoetsa commended his coaching staff for their efforts behind the scenes after goalkeeper Jody February showcased an exceptional performance against Polokwane City on Saturday.

February managed to keep a clean sheet and saved two penalties, aiding Siwelele’s advancement to the Carling Knockout quarter-finals, thereby earning accolades for his contributions to the team’s success.

Nonetheless, Mosoetsa stressed that the goalkeeper’s achievements shouldn’t overshadow the work of the technical staff who prepared the players.

“We must also credit the other members of the technical team. Often, as coaches, we come in and take all the accolades, but many people are performing remarkable tasks behind the scenes,” he stated.

“We will highlight Jody’s clean sheet, but who trains Jody? We discuss how the players sustained their performance up to the 120th minute despite being a man down, yet who is responsible for ensuring they can handle that endurance?”

“There are many individuals doing the essential work behind the scenes. For instance, the kit manager has to ensure that the training and match kits—and everything else—are prepared. It’s a team effort.

“This is the second time I’m expressing this, but I wish there could be awards for the technical staff as well as the players. The players are vital, but plenty of work is done behind the scenes by others who also deserve recognition.”

Siwelele will be back in action on Friday, facing Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership.

Pule will be eager to return to the squad and shake off his recent absence, while February aims to continue his remarkable form and assist Siwelele in building on their cup success.