Gavin Lane: MLS would be a great stepping stone for Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Mbokazi arrived in the United States on Friday, and former Buccaneers stalwart Gavin Lane has praised the timing of the transfer, noting that it comes just weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

"To get a move anywhere overseas, people will say, 'Why didn't he wait for a while and why didn't he go there? Sometimes people are fortunate to get an option to go, I mean, he is young enough to go there," Lane told Sowetan.

"If he does well in America, other teams are still going to notice him in other countries. He has done extremely well at Pirates. He must go there and learn a little bit more because good players are playing there.

"He is still a youngster, let him go and try out and when he is 24, maybe he can go to England or anywhere, you will never know."

Despite the setback, Pirates have an opportunity to climb to the summit of the Betway Premiership table. A win at Orlando Stadium, where kick-off is scheduled for 7.30pm, would pull them level with leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on 25 points, though Sundowns would still hold a game in hand.

Nkosinathi Sibisi is expected to slot into the starting lineup in Mbokazi's absence, likely partnering Lebone Seema at the heart of defence.

Abdeslam Ouaddou's squad enter the match well rested after a long break and buoyed by their progress to the Carling Knockout final, secured with their victory over Richards Bay on 8 October.

Pirates also hold a strong psychological edge. They have dominated recent encounters with Chippa and already defeated them this season at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. A win on Tuesday would complete a league double over the Chilli Boys.