Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed that defender Edmilson Dove has become the latest player to sustain an injury during their pre-season training camp in Turkey.
The former Cape Town City FC man suffered an injury during Friday’s training session.
Amakhosi confirmed that he was examined by the club’s medical team and he’s expected to leave Turkey for South Africa for a full assessment and medical attention.
However, the club did not confirm what type of injury the defender sustained during their pre-season training session.
This is bad news for the Glamour Boys as the 2024/25 PSL season is fast approaching and have four other players who are currently nursing their injuries.
WHO ARE THE OTHER FOUR KAIZER CHIEFS PLAYERS INJURED?
The other four players who are currently on the sidelines due to injuries are Mduduzi Mdantsane, Tebogo Potsane, Dillan Solomons, and George Matlou.
Mdantsane is ruled out for 3 months after suffering a broken jaw in a recent motor vehicle accident.
Potsane is recovering from groin surgery, and he is expected to be back in training in about two weeks.
Solomons has undergone shoulder surgery and will be out for nine weeks, but he has started running and rehabilitation, whereas Matlou is expected back in October following his knee surgery.
The news comes at a particularly challenging time for Chiefs, who have already parted ways with defenders Sifiso Hlanti and Njabulo Ngcobo. Dove’s versatility, able to play both as a central defender and left-back, leaves a significant void in the squad’s defensive depth.
The club’s defensive woes are further compounded by the tragic loss of Luke Fleurs, who died towards the end of the season.
That, combined with Dove’s injury, leaves Chiefs thin at the back ahead of the upcoming season.
Dove, who recently had his contract extended by one year, had hoped to impress his new coach Nasreddine Nabi.
His absence leaves Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Given Msimango and Zitha Kwinika as the only central defence options.
In addition, at left-back, which is also Dove’s position, Chiefs currently only have new signing Bongani Sam, meaning that the club will likely try to strengthen their defensive department ahead of the new season.
KAIZER CHIEFS OFFICIAL STATEMENT
“Kaizer Chiefs’ defender Edmilson Dove has joined the Club’s injury list after he suffered an injury during Friday’s session at Amakhosi’s pre-season training camp in Türkiye.
“The Mozambican international has been examined by the medical team in camp. He will leave Türkiye and head back to South Africa for a full assessment and medical attention.
“We wish him, and the rest of the injured fellows a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing them back on the training grounds and field of play soon.”
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