Khanyisa Mayo nearing Kaizer Chiefs return after hernia surgery

Khanyisa Mayo is expected to be available for Kaizer Chiefs selection in about two weeks after making a positive recovery from hernia surgery, offering Fernando Da Cruz a major boost in attack.

The striker has not yet played a competitive match under the new Kaizer Chiefs coach after undergoing the operation following the end of last season. The procedure also ruled him out of the club’s pre-season camp in Spain in July.

Mayo has returned to training, although he is currently working separately from the rest of the squad as he completes the final stages of his rehabilitation. The 27-year-old’s absence has reduced Chiefs’ options in the forward line, particularly with Flavio Silva also sidelined by injury.

Information from within the club indicates that Mayo’s expected return date is 20 September, with the medical team currently focusing on restoring his fitness rather than treating the original injury.

“The boy has healed nicely; what they are working on now is his fitness,” a source told KickOff.

“At the moment, he is still hitting the gym. They are still getting him back to his best again. It won’t take long though. The exact date set by the medical department for his return is the 20th of September. Everyone can see that the team is struggling up front. His return will really help,” the source added.

Mayo’s return would give Da Cruz another established attacking option as Kaizer Chiefs attempt to build on an unbeaten start to the season. The Soweto club have scored eight goals in their opening four Betway Premiership matches, averaging two goals per game.

Although Chiefs have maintained their unbeaten record, the technical staff have had to rotate their available forwards while Mayo and Silva have been absent. Mayo’s recovery therefore comes at an important point in the campaign, with the club seeking greater competition and consistency in the final third.

The former Cape Town City player has yet to feature in competitive action since joining the new-look Chiefs set-up under Da Cruz. His eventual return will be closely watched by the Amakhosi faithful, who have been waiting to see him lead the attack under the French coach.

Kaizer Chiefs’ next match is against Siwelele FC at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 17:30. Depending on the progress of his conditioning programme, Mayo could be approaching a return to contention as the club continue their Betway Premiership campaign.