Kaizer Chiefs injury boost as Shabalala and Mako return to first-team training

Kaizer Chiefs have received a timely boost with Mduduzi Shabalala and Paseka Mako back in first-team training as they continue their recovery from long-term arm injuries.

Neither player has appeared for Amakhosi’s senior side this season, but both took part in training at Naturena this week as the club’s medical team gradually steps up their rehabilitation.

The pair’s return to group sessions is an important milestone for Kaizer Chiefs, although the two players are at different stages of their respective recoveries.

Mako remains behind Shabalala in the race to return to competitive football. The left-back was seen wearing a protective plaster cast during some of the drills, suggesting that the club is still taking a cautious approach to his workload.

His continued use of the cast indicates that he is unlikely to be ready for first-team action as soon as Shabalala. Kaizer Chiefs are managing his recovery carefully after the injury he sustained during a pre-season friendly against Al Kholood.

Shabalala, meanwhile, has made more rapid progress and is closing in on a return to the senior squad. The attacking midfielder recently stepped up his preparations by building match fitness with the DStv Diski Challenge reserve side in a friendly.

The Soweto-born player is now widely expected to feature for Kaizer Chiefs’ first team before the end of the month, provided he continues to respond positively to the increased demands of training and match preparation.

Shabalala suffered his fracture during a heavy challenge late in the first half of a Betway Premiership match against Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria. The injury ruled him out for the opening part of the campaign and forced him to undergo an extended rehabilitation programme.

Mako’s forearm fracture came during the club’s pre-season meeting with Al Kholood, keeping him out of competitive action while he recovered.

The return of the two players comes at a significant point in Kaizer Chiefs’ schedule. Amakhosi are preparing to face Golden Arrows in the MTN8 on Sunday, with the club hoping to make progress in the competition while also continuing to rebuild its squad.

Although neither Shabalala nor Mako is confirmed to play in that match, their involvement in first-team training provides encouragement for the club. Shabalala’s work with the DStv Diski Challenge side means he is the closer of the pair to a competitive return, while Mako’s protective cast shows that his recovery will require more time.

Kaizer Chiefs will continue to monitor both players before deciding when they can safely resume full competitive involvement.