Frank Gabadinho Mhango says fear of another injury is delaying his return for Richards Bay FC

Richards Bay FC striker Frank Gabadinho Mhango says the fear of suffering another injury is preventing him from pushing himself fully as he continues his recovery from an Achilles tendon problem.

The Malawi international has been out for almost a year and is now in the final stages of his rehabilitation. After spending several months recovering in Malawi, Mhango returned to South Africa and recently began training again with his Richards Bay FC team-mates.

He has not set a firm date for his return to competitive action, but says he could be available soon.

“At the moment, I am still recovering. I cannot say exactly when I will be back, but it could happen at any time,” Mhango told KickOff.

“After an operation, the only thing that can prevent you from making a comeback is the fear of getting injured again.”

Although he is now taking part in team training, Mhango admits he remains reluctant to commit fully in challenges.

“I am training with the rest of the team, but I am still afraid to go into tackles,” he added.

Mhango was also asked about Richards Bay FC’s heavy defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday and whether his presence could have changed the outcome.

The striker said the result was part of football and that outcomes could not be determined by one player.

“What happened yesterday is part of the game. Football nowadays does not rely on individuals,” he said.