Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki has expressed his gratitude for being given another chance at life after surviving a car accident earlier in the season.
The 31-year-old centre-back has yet to feature for the Buccaneers this term as he is still doing rehabilitation, insisting he’s taking the recovery process on a day-by-day basis.
Xoki sustained injuries during an incident on the R21 highway near the OR Tambo International Airport on August 31 while he and some of the club’s staff were heading back home after the Betway Premiership clash with Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The vehicle they were travelling in was hit by a speeding bakkie as the players and staff reportedly tried to offer aid at the scene of another accident.
Xoki, who is in his fourth season at Pirates after making the switch from AmaZulu in July 2022, revealed he has been helping to guide the younger players in Abdeslam Ouaddou’s squad while he continues to recover.
“I am just grateful for life… grateful to be alive, having another chance to have a go at life,” he said at the draw for the Nedbank Cup round of 16 which pitted the Sea Robbers with Casric Stars.
“I am currently busy doing rehab, taking it one day at a time, and I am grateful to the club for the support and everyone who’s supported me through this difficult time.
“It’s been a nice challenge to help the guys that are playing from outside, as I am not yet training with them. I am trying to impart any positivity that I can impart to help the team.
“It’s been nice to see younger players stepping up… the future belongs to them, so we are playing our role to make sure that we guide them for the upcoming years.”
