Kaizer Chiefs supporters have been handed an encouraging glimpse of Khanyisa Mayo back in training, but the striker’s absence from the matchday squad for the recent victory over Siwelele has raised plenty of questions.
Mayo, who joined the Glamour Boys after making a name for himself at Cape Town City, is working his way back to full fitness. His return to training is a positive development for Fernando Da Cruz and his technical team, but his omission from the squad suggests he may still need more time before returning to competitive action.
Mayo steps up his comeback
The sight of Mayo back on the training pitch will come as welcome news to Kaizer Chiefs fans.
The striker was involved in preparations ahead of the club’s 3-2 victory over Siwelele, showing that his recovery is progressing. However, he was not included in the matchday squad.
That could indicate that Chiefs are taking a cautious approach with the forward rather than rushing him back before he is completely ready.
For a player returning from an absence, training with the team is an important step, but being physically ready for a competitive match is another challenge altogether.
Chiefs have attacking options
While Mayo continues to work towards his return, Chiefs have already shown that they have other players capable of making an impact in attack.
The Glamour Boys secured a 3-2 win over Siwelele, with Mfundo Vilakazi and Wandile Duba finding the back of the net. Lebo Maboe and Mdu Shabalala provided the assists.
The result also extended Chiefs’ unbeaten start to the Betway Premiership season, giving Da Cruz plenty of encouragement as he continues to shape his squad.
Mayo’s eventual return could provide the coach with another attacking option, particularly as the season begins to gather momentum.
Chiefs face Polokwane City next
Chiefs’ unbeaten run will be tested again when they travel to face Polokwane City on Saturday, 12 September.
Polokwane have had a less convincing start to the campaign, recording one victory, three draws and a defeat from their opening matches.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 and will be broadcast on DStv SuperSport Channel 202.
The big question for Chiefs supporters is whether Mayo will be ready to make the squad by then — or whether the club will continue to manage his return carefully.
When will Mayo return?
For now, there is no indication that Chiefs are willing to rush their striker back into action.
His presence in training is certainly encouraging, but his absence against Siwelele suggests that he may still be building up the fitness required for a competitive match.
If Mayo can complete his comeback successfully, his return could give Da Cruz another attacking weapon as Kaizer Chiefs look to maintain their unbeaten start.
