Langelihle Phili could return for Kaizer Chiefs’ Carling Knockout semi-final

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says Langelihle Phili could be available for the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final after returning to training this week.

The 21-year-old has been out since suffering an ankle injury in August, having joined Amakhosi at the start of the season.

Phili made three appearances in all competitions before his injury interrupted his progress at the club. He scored once during that run.

Da Cruz provided the update after Kaizer Chiefs’ 2-1 quarter-final victory over Siwelele FC in Polokwane, confirming that Phili would resume football sessions with the first-team squad.

“Phili will start this week with the squad on the field, the football sessions,” said Da Cruz.

“He’s close to start to play competitions, maybe he will be ready for the semi-final, we don’t know.

“But we’ll work a lot with him during this FIFA break.”

Kaizer Chiefs secured their place in the last four with the win and will face Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals.

The other semi-final will see Orlando Pirates play Stellenbosch.