Cape Town - Kaizer
Chiefs coach Steve Komphela thinks the club's injury crisis has a
positive upside in that it gives other players in his squad the
opportunity to shine.
Currently the Glamour Boys have Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Tsepo Masilela, Emmanuel Letlotlo, Teenage Hadebe, Sibusiso Khumalo and Ryan Moon all ruled out with longer-term injuries, while key central defender Eric Mathoho is suspended.
In addition, number-one goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune only recently returned to action following a battle with a serious chest infection. Nonetheless, Komphela is taking a positive view of the situation by suggesting it gives others an opportunity to show their worth.
"Any time you lose a squad member, it gives other players an opportunity to show their mettle," he told the club's official website. "We will run lean and mean in defence, but luckily enough we have players capable to switch positions and change the formation when necessary.
"We are excited to get back to action. The team is upbeat and looking forward to play. The FIFA break gave us a chance to work on a number of aspects of our game that needed attention.
"We played in two friendlies during the break and I thought it gave us an opportunity to put some polishing touches on our tactics."
Meanwhile a brave Kaizer Chiefs emerged victors for the first time this season against previously unbeaten Cape Town City in a pulsating Premiership clash at Cape Town Stadium.