Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has shared his stance on integrating injured trio George Matlou, Mduduzi Mdantsane, and Tebogo Potsane.
The trio missed the club’s pre-season camp in Turkey due to injuries. While they have since returned to training at Naturena, they have yet to feature in a matchday squad.
Potsane, who underwent groin surgery, has made a swift recovery and is showing promising form in training and friendly matches. Matlou is also back in training following knee surgery. Mdantsane, the former Cape Town City FC midfielder, has recovered from jaw surgery sustained in an accident.
Nabi will be hoping that the return of these players will bolster his squad options as the season progresses.
WHAT IS NABI’S STANCE ON POTSANE, MDANTSANE & MATLOU
“It’s true they’ve been injured for quite some time. All three are done with rehabilitation and are currently training with the group,” Nabi said as Chiefs prepare to take on Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final tie on Saturday at FNB Stadium.
“They’ve joined the group and are training. But we need to be very careful how we integrate them into official matches.
“For example, George has been out for over a year; we need to give him time to train. “We need to give them time to participate in friendly games and bring back connection with the teammates before we can think of incorporating them in official matches,” added Nasreddine Nabi.
Amakhosi have played six official matches this season, including one cup tie. In the league, they’ve secured two wins, suffered two losses, and drawn one match against Magesi FC on Wednesday.
The Soweto giants are set to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout on Saturday at FNB Stadium. Their previous encounter ended in a 2-1 defeat.
Chiefs, trophyless for nearly a decade, will aim to progress to the final and end their silverware drought.
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