Langelihle Phili nearing Kaizer Chiefs return before Mamelodi Sundowns semi-final

Kaizer Chiefs winger Langelihle Phili has resumed training with the first-team squad and could return in time for the Carling Knockout semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, head coach Fernando da Cruz says.

Phili has been out for six weeks after suffering a serious ankle injury during training. The injury followed Chiefs’ high-intensity 1-1 draw with Sundowns on 15 August and ruled him out of the Soweto club’s next eight competitive matches.

The winger joined Chiefs from Stellenbosch FC as a marquee signing and arrived with significant expectations. His absence has left the club without one of its most highly rated attacking players during a busy period of the season.

Da Cruz provided the update after Chiefs came from behind to beat Siwelele FC and secure their place in the last four of the Carling Knockout. Speaking at his post-match news conference at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday, he said Phili had made encouraging progress but was not yet certain to feature in the semi-final.

“Phili restarted this week (last week) with the squad and has been taking part in football sessions on the field,” said Da Cruz.

“So, he is close to restarting to play in competitions.

“Maybe he will be ready for the semi-final – we don’t know, but we will work a lot with him during this FIFA [international] break.”

Chiefs will now rely on their medical staff and the work carried out during the international break as they assess whether Phili can be cleared to play.

Their semi-final against perennial rivals Sundowns is scheduled to take place immediately after the FIFA break. His availability could therefore be significant as Chiefs pursue silverware in the competition.

The club’s immediate progress has come after a challenging period for Phili, whose injury occurred shortly after the draw with Sundowns. Since then, he has missed eight competitive fixtures while continuing his recovery away from match action.

Although he has returned to football work on the field, Da Cruz stopped short of confirming that the winger would be ready for the semi-final. Chiefs will continue to monitor his condition before making a final decision on his involvement against Sundowns.