Johannesburg - Bafana Bafana defender Tsepo Masilela is chuffed to have finally made his first appearance for Kaizer Chiefs at the weekend.

Having made the move to Naturena from Israeli outfit Maccabi Haifa earlier this season, the 27-year-old has been out of action since early June with a knee injury.

But Masilela is fit once again and was able to make his debut appearance for Chiefs on Sunday in their 4-3 Macufe Cup defeat to Bloemfontein Celtic.

Easing back into the swings of things, he played only the first half at the Free State Stadium, but relished the opportunity nonetheless.

"It felt great to finally play my first game for Kaizer Chiefs," Masilela told Chiefs' official website.

"It will take time to regain match fitness but with a few more games I will regain my confidence and sharpness.

"It is a pity the season has moved into top gear already and there will be not much friendly games to play, I guess one has to play catch up with the moving train."

Masilela is aware it will be a challenge unseating incumbent Jimmy Jambo at left-back for the Amakhosi, yet he is happy to bide his time.

He added: "Jimmy (Jambo) is doing well at left back and the team had a great start to the season. I wish him and the team to continue doing well as I will be waiting patiently for my turn to make a contribution to the team going forward."

Meanwhile, Masilela has thanked the Glamour Boys' loyal supporters for having made him feel at home at the Soweto club.

"I want to acknowledge the support that the fans give the team, and wish they keep supporting us even if we experience challenges during the course of the season," he said.

"We must stick together as Amakhosi because we wouldn't be where we are without their support.

"I was welcomed nicely by everyone at Kaizer Chiefs and would like to do my best to contribute to the team's success."