Xoki is unavailable for the encounter against AmaZulu due to suspension after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season in Pirates' 1-1 draw against Sekhukhune United over the past weekend.

While the Buccaneers have enough depth in the squad especially at the back, head coach Jose Riveiro will have to work around his squad to find a better replacement for his key suspended centre-back.

Needing a victory against AmaZulu to retain the second spot on the log and qualify for the CAF Champions League, Pirates are currently level on points with third SuperSport United who are also still in the hunt for the runners up spot and join fellow Tshwane side Mamelodi Sundowns in continental football.

Xoki has been influential at the back for the Buccaneers since joining the team from Usuthu during the beginning of the current season.

The 28 year old helped Pirates clinch the MTN 8 crown last year against the very same opponents at the Moses Mabhida Stadium by having an outstanding performance on the night alongside Nkosinathi Sibisi and Olisa Ndah.

Having made 27 appearances in all competitions for Riveiro's charges, Xoki has also managed to be instrumental in Pirates' Nedbank Cup campaign, captaining the side to victory in the most recent Soweto derby semi-final clash against their arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

The last time the two sides met in a league match, AmaZulu managed to claim a point at the Orlando Stadium with a 1-1 draw after Sphesihle Maduna broke the deadlock for the visitors in the 35th minute however, Veli Mothwa's own goal brought Pirates back into the tie.

Kick-off at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday is 15:00 o'clock.