AmaZulu FC head coach Pablo Franco Martin is thrilled by a significant boost to his squad ahead of their crucial DStv Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs.
Usuthu will host Amakhosi on Sunday, May 12th at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Both teams are seeking a return to winning ways after winless runs in their last two league matches. The encounter also holds significance as they vie for a coveted top-eight spot.
Currently, Kaizer Chiefs occupy eighth place with 34 points from 27 games, two points ahead of AmaZulu who have played the same number of matches.
Defender Abbubaker Mobara returns after serving a three-match suspension. He was sent off during a 1-0 away defeat to Orlando Pirates three weeks ago, a decision that sparked controversy.
Former FIFA referee Ace Ncobo wasn’t convinced that the referee made the “correct decision”. AmaZulu’s appeal to the PSL to overturn the suspension was unsuccessful.
Martin says Mobara’s return is a joy for them considering the limited depth they have in the squad.
PABLO FRANCO MARTIN ON RETURN OF ABBUBAKER MOBARA
“When we’re talking about the situation of Mobara, it’s not possible not to mention how unfair it was not having him for three games,” said Martin.
“When you didn’t commit the foul and it’s clear and everybody is seeing that. And you’re trying to appeal and you’re not receiving an answer for a week.
“And after that, the answer is, ‘No we have the right not to do anything, to keep injustice going on’ and that’s what happened. It was three games without one of our key players. I think it was for something that he didn’t do.
“But from there, he’s coming back like everyone, we’re happy because we don’t have a huge depth in this squad. So, anytime we’re losing the player, anytime he’s coming back, it’s a matter of joy for us.
“Let’s see if on Sunday he’s the best option to start the game and in what position or maybe he’s not going to make the list. Players who have played have done a good job.
“Great effort against Stellenbosch, good performance. From there, we have to make the decision.”
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