Da Cruz Drops Hint on Phili Injury, and Chiefs Fans Will Like It
Kaizer Chiefs have been waiting a long time for good news on this front, and Fernando Da Cruz has finally delivered some.
The head coach has spoken about exciting winger Langelihle Phili, and the timing could hardly be better, with the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns coming up.
The 21-year-old had a wonderful start to Amakhosi after joining from Stellebosch FC at the start of the season, but an injury put brakes on his growth. But he has full group training last week.
Phili has been out since suffering a severe ankle injury in training after Chiefs’ 1-1 draw with Sundowns on 15 August. He has missed eight competitive fixtures across all competitions.
Da Cruz gave the update after Sunday’s 2-1 win over Siwelele in Polokwane.
“Phili restarted this week with the squad and has been taking part in football sessions on the field,” he said. “He is close to restarting to play competitions.
“Maybe he will be ready for the semi-final; we don’t know, but we’ll work a lot with him during this FIFA break.”
Phili made an instant impression at Naturena, scoring early in his appearances before the setback. The FIFA break gives Chiefs extra time to prepare him for a semi-final scheduled for 20 to 22 November.
If he is fit, Da Cruz will have another attacking option against the defending champions as Amakhosi chase a place in the final. Chiefs fans will be watching closely.
He and new signing Elias Mokwaba are expected to have big impact when they get into the team.
