Khanyisa Mayo ready to return for Kaizer Chiefs after seven-month injury absence

Khanyisa Mayo is fit and available for selection after nearly seven months out of competitive action for Kaizer Chiefs, although head coach Fernando da Cruz has yet to include the forward in a matchday squad.

Mayo’s last appearance for the Soweto club came on 18 April, when he entered in the 27th minute of a Betway Premiership fixture against Polokwane City.

The 28-year-old’s loan move from Algerian club CR Belouizdad was made permanent before the current season, underlining Kaizer Chiefs’ belief in his ability. He had been expected to complete the tactical plans of the club’s newly established technical team.

Instead, a serious hernia problem disrupted his progress at the end of last season and required surgery. The injury also ruled him out of Kaizer Chiefs’ high-profile pre-season tour of Spain, where his team-mates continued adapting to a new footballing approach.

Mayo, who was born in Mthatha, has since followed a specialised, high-intensity conditioning programme. As part of his rehabilitation, he has also spent time with the club’s DStv Diski Challenge side while working under close medical supervision.

A source said Mayo had now recovered fully and was capable of completing a full match, leaving the decision over his return to Da Cruz.

“As everyone knows, Mayo has been training with the team for a while now. He is fully recovered,” the source said.

“The coach has opted against playing him for now. But the boy is fit and can easily play 90 minutes.

“It’s a pity he did not feature in the derby considering how many chances the team created on the day.”

Kaizer Chiefs will face Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout quarter-final at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.

Mayo’s return could provide another attacking option for Da Cruz as the club continues its campaign, but he will need to be selected before making his first competitive appearance since April.