Kaizer Chiefs receive boost as injured defenders near return

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz says his side are beginning to recover several injured defenders after a difficult start to the new campaign.

Amakhosi began the season without a recognised left-back because Bradley Cross, Paseka Mako and Nkanyiso Shinga were all unavailable. Reeve Frosler, who had also been used in that position, then suffered a thigh injury, further limiting Da Cruz’s options.

Frosler returned to action in Kaizer Chiefs’ 3-2 victory over Siwelele at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday evening. Cross was named among the substitutes after being seen training during the week alongside Mako and Shinga, suggesting the club’s defensive injury situation is beginning to improve.

“We’re starting to recover injured players, Reeve played today, Cross is very close to be playing again, I think he will play before the FIFA break and during the break we will recover the other players, so I think it would be a good thing for us,” Da Cruz said.

The coach’s assessment provides encouragement for a team whose defensive options have been stretched by the absence of several players. Frosler’s return against Siwelele was the first visible sign of progress, while Cross could be available again before the upcoming FIFA break.

Da Cruz also expects the international window to give the club further time to work towards the returns of Mako and Shinga. Both players were spotted at training in mid-week, along with Cross, although they were not included in the matchday action against Siwelele.

Kabelo Nkgwesa has also emerged as a player of interest at Naturena Village since being promoted to the first team. The 19-year-old has previously been identified by Da Cruz as someone who can become an important figure for the club in the future, particularly in the left-back position.

However, Nkgwesa still has tactical areas to improve before he can be fully trusted in that role. His development involves finding the right balance between the attacking demands of a full-back and the defensive responsibilities required in the position.

That leaves Kaizer Chiefs waiting on the recovery of their more established options while continuing to assess Nkgwesa’s progress. Frosler’s appearance in the win over Siwelele has eased some of the pressure, and Cross’ possible return before the FIFA break would provide another boost.

The club’s injury situation has been a significant part of their defensive difficulties this season, but Da Cruz believes the picture is now becoming more positive. He also indicated that the FIFA break could prove useful as the remaining injured players continue their rehabilitation.

A separate update from Da Cruz on Phili has also been highlighted by the club.

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