Linda Mntambo and Tshego Mabasa’s Sekhukhune United absence explained

The duo, who were both Orlando Pirates players last season – although Mabasa is currently on loan, have hardly featured for Babina Noko since Truter arrived during the lengthy FIFA World Cup break in November/December. 

According to the coach, Mntambo has a serious injury.

"Linda still has a long-term injury, we very much doubt that he will be available for the rest of the season," said Truter.

"Yes, he's working hard on his fitness and everything, but rushing him back, like we did against [Marumo] Gallants and he broke down again, for his career I think it would be in his benefit to take his time and really make sure that he's fully healed before he returns."

But Mabasa simply has Chibuike Ohizu and Victor Letsoalo ahead of him in the pecking order at present.

"The front three at this moment have all scored, we have Vila also in there, we have the young [Elias] Mokwana, who you just saw what he can bring as well," he explained.

"So, at this moment it's tough to get in, but he's a model pro, he keeps on working and fighting and I can't complain about his attitude in training or anything like that, it's just about waiting for an opportunity and taking it with both hands."

Sekhukhune have managed a single victory from their last six DStv Premiership matches, and Truter intends to use the current FIFA break to fix what’s broken. 

"The key area for me is the mentality. I have a squad of talented, mature, experienced players who have won things. Right now, we're not consistent enough for me, and the performances are not consistent enough," he added.

"I feel there's a certain moment where we lack confidence, and I think there are certain moments where we lack understanding or the hunger to win games."