Three out, two back in contention as Vipers visit Maroons

Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC will welcome back versatile defender-cum-midfielder Patrick Paul Mbowa as they take on Maroons FC at Luzira Prisons on Wednesday.

Mbowa had been granted compassionate leave to write his institute examinations, which had him miss the past two victories against Kitara FC (2-1) and UPDF FC (1-0).

He has since returned to full training and is available for selection. He'll vie for a starting berth with Rogers Torach and Livingstone Mulondo.

Meanwhile, it's more pleasant news for the Venoms as reliable midfielder Siraje Ssentamu has shrugged off any injury concerns to return to full training.

The rock-solid holding midfielder was withdrawn at halftime against Kitara with a suspected injury, but the club has confirmed his presence for the game in Luzira.

"Siraje Ssentamu's injury wasn't as bad as we thought, and he had a full training session yesterday and today, so he's available for selection," the communication from the club revealed.

On the other hand, Vipers will miss the services of winger Abdu Lumala after his forced withdrawal against Kitara at Kitende last Thursday.

The club has described his setback as a "groin injury" that will keep him out for an unspecified spell.

Long-term absentees Hillary Mukundane and goalkeeper Alfred Macumu Mudekereza are still out as they continue their rehabilitation from respective injury layoffs.