Mamelodi Sundowns expect Keanu Cupido to return later this year after shoulder surgery

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido is progressing well in his recovery from shoulder surgery and is expected to return before the end of the year, coach Miguel Cardoso says.

The centre-back played through the injury for a period before undergoing the operation. He was an important part of Sundowns’ defence last season as the club achieved success in the CAF Champions League.

Cardoso warned that Cupido’s comeback would not be immediate, but said the defender’s condition had begun to improve.

“I also would like to remind you guys that Keanu is in a strong absence, but we expect to recover him. Not that quickly, absolutely no, but later in the year,” said Cardoso.

“I think he’s now starting to have a small smile on the face. That situation became a little bit more serious than we expected, but the medical department is working strong on it and trying to solve it so that we have an extra one.”

Cardoso also emphasised the importance of having a full squad available as the season progresses.

“And we’re going to need everybody. Because, as I say, one falls down, two have to get up.”