The 27-year-old has faced challenges in securing consistent playing time since joining the Buccaneers, appearing only sporadically, often coming off the bench for brief intervals. At times, he has even been excluded from the matchday squad.

Pedersen encounters tough competition for a spot in the starting eleven, with Boitumelo Radiopane and Yanela Mbuthuma frequently taking up the striker roles. Additionally, Evidence Makgopa’s return provides Ouaddou with another attacking option.

Nevertheless, the Pirates coach has acknowledged Pedersen’s dedication and development during training, stating that the club is methodically managing his assimilation into the team.

“There is no concern regarding Sebastian. I am pleased with his dedication and integration. We are taking all necessary steps to support him,” Ouaddou remarked.

“As I mentioned, we have several strikers in that role, but he is near. He is working diligently in training, and we’re attempting to build up his stamina for a full 90 minutes while utilizing him alongside our impact players. He is progressing well, and I’m just waiting for the opportune moment to include him in the squad.

“I am confident he will be a significant asset for us, but entering a new environment necessitates introducing a player at the ideal time. I want to avoid burning him out, so we have to evaluate the best moment to incorporate him and benefit the team.

“He is close. What I observe in training shows he is making great strides. Another crucial aspect is that he has relocated to a city sitting 1,700 meters above sea level.

“Transitioning from sea level to a country and city at high altitude can be quite challenging. All these factors must be accounted for to facilitate the player’s adjustment.”

Pedersen will be looking to secure his first start when the Pirates take on Namibian side African Stars in the second leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary-round tie at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday evening.

The Buccaneers hold a 1-0 lead after winning the first leg.

The former Sogndal striker has yet to make his CAF Champions League debut for Pirates this season, despite the club having already played three matches in the tournament.

With the Buccaneers aiming for advancement to the next round, this matchup could offer Pedersen another chance to demonstrate to Ouaddou that he is ready for a larger role.

Additionally, Ouaddou has shared an update regarding Oswin Appollis as the clash approaches, though cautious about hastily reintegrating the Bafana Bafana winger.

Appollis was absent from the first leg against African Stars after sustaining an injury in Pirates’ latest league match against TS Galaxy. Although he has returned to training, Ouaddou emphasized the necessity of managing his recovery thoughtfully.

“I’m glad he is back in training. Our goal on Thursday was to evaluate him and see what he can perform. We initiated the warm-up to determine if he could sprint, so this is positive news,” Ouaddou added.

“I spoke with him at the end of training, and he informed me that he no longer experiences any pain.

“Simultaneously, you must recognize that Oswin is a very valuable player for our team. I refer to all of them as Ferraris because they are all top-tier players. One must ensure the engine of a Ferrari is well-maintained; I don’t want to take unnecessary risks with one of our key players.

“We have numerous crucial matches ahead, as mentioned by someone, so we must proceed with caution and avoid rushing the process.”

While Pedersen continues to strive for a starting position, the Pirates will also keep a close eye on Appollis’ fitness as they gear up for Friday’s vital continental clash.