SPEEDY Orlando Pirates winger Dikgang Mabalane has recovered from injury on time to give coach Ruud Krol more options ahead of Saturday's epic Nedbank Cup clash with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sowetan has learnt that Mabalane is back in full force at training at Johannesburg Stadium after being sidelined for three months by a groin injury. He could make his first appearance for Pirates this year when they meet Downs in the last-32 stage at Orlando Stadium (8.15pm).

The last time the man affectionately known as "Terminator" played in an official match was in the Telkom Knockout final when Bucs went down 3-0 to Kaizer Chiefs on December 4.

Also back from injury are Lucas Thwala and Benson Mhlongo.

Thwala and Mabalane featured in a warm-up match for Pirates against Zambia's Nchanga Rangers on Monday. The second-string Pirates side lost 2-0.

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane should be happy that Thwala is back as the left-back position has been giving him sleepless nights while Israel-based Tsepo Masilela is recovering from a knee injury.

"We are happy the trio are back at training, especially when you look at the suspensions we have been dealing with in the past few games," said Bucs' spokesperson Mickey Modisane yesterday.

"Signs are that the league title will go down to the wire, so it is important to have all our playing personnel available as we approach the final stages of the season. We want to remain on top of the log until the last match.

"We are introducing the Fly The Pirates' Flag Campaign to encourage our fans to proudly show their love for Pirates."