Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why the club is carefully managing Oswin Appollis' playing time, describing the talented winger as a "diamond" who must be protected throughout the demanding season.

Appollis has not enjoyed the same amount of playing time he received last season, leading some Pirates supporters to question why the Bafana Bafana international has featured less regularly.

The winger was an important attacking option for the Buccaneers during the previous campaign, using his pace, creativity and ability to take on defenders to make a difference in the final third.

However, Ouaddou has made it clear that the reduced involvement is not a reflection of the club losing confidence in the player's abilities.

Instead, the Pirates coach believes that managing Appollis carefully will help the team benefit from his quality when it matters most.

Speaking about the situation, Ouaddou explained that the club considers the winger an important asset and wants to avoid placing unnecessary physical demands on him.

"We are protecting our diamond because we have many games and we know that if we protect him, we give him this time, we know that he will be important for us. We'll benefit from this protection we're giving him," Ouaddou said.

His comments suggest that Pirates are taking a long-term approach to managing their squad, particularly with several important competitions demanding the players' attention.

The Buccaneers are competing in the Betway Premiership, domestic cup competitions and the CAF Champions League. Balancing these commitments requires careful planning from the technical team.

Appollis remains one of the attacking players capable of changing a match through his individual quality. His ability to create chances, deliver dangerous passes and trouble opposition defenders makes him a valuable option for the coach.

Ouaddou therefore believes that allowing the winger sufficient time to recover and maintain his physical condition will benefit both the player and the club.

For Pirates supporters, the coach's explanation should provide some reassurance that Appollis remains an important part of his plans.

The expectation is that the winger will continue contributing as the season progresses, particularly when the Buccaneers face crucial matches in their pursuit of silverware.

Ouaddou's message is clear: Pirates are not prepared to risk exhausting one of their most valuable attacking players when they believe his contribution will be important throughout the campaign.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100044342953460/posts/1716386159849466/?app=fbl