Kaizer Chiefs have been handed a major setback with two first-team players set for spells on the sidelines as Fernando Da Cruz prepares for another Betway Premiership test.
The Glamour Boys have made an unbeaten start to the league campaign, but their early momentum has now been disrupted by injuries to Langelihle Phili and Thabiso Monyane.
Chiefs lose two key players
New signing Langelihle Phili is expected to miss approximately eight weeks after suffering an ankle injury during training.
The setback comes at an unfortunate time for the youngster, who had made a positive impression since arriving at Naturena.
Chiefs will also be without Thabiso Monyane, who has established himself as a regular first-team option. The defender is expected to spend around four weeks recovering from his injury.
The double blow gives Da Cruz another selection headache as he looks to maintain Chiefs’ positive start to the season.
Defensive reinforcements nearing returns
There is some encouraging news on the injury front.
Defenders Bradley Cross, Paseka Mako, Kabelo Nkgwesa and Reeve Frosler are all reportedly edging closer to a return, potentially giving Da Cruz more options in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo is fit, although the midfielder has not featured for a single minute across Chiefs’ last three matches.
That could make his situation another interesting subplot as the French coach weighs up his options.
Chiefs unbeaten heading into Siwelele test
Chiefs have collected eight points from their opening four league matches, leaving them unbeaten in the Betway Premiership.
While the start has not been spectacular, Da Cruz will be encouraged by the fact that his side remains difficult to beat.
Their next challenge comes against Siwelele on Sunday, 6 September at 15:30.
The match follows Chiefs’ 2-2 draw against Richards Bay, a game affected by difficult weather conditions. Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen came under scrutiny during the match, but Da Cruz has publicly backed his goalkeeper and indicated that he will not be dropped.
The Siwelele clash will be broadcast on DStv channel 202.
With injuries beginning to test the depth of his squad, Da Cruz will now be hoping his available players can step up and keep Chiefs’ unbeaten run alive.
Can Kaizer Chiefs overcome the injury setbacks and claim all three points?
