Kaizer Chiefs have received a major boost ahead of Sundayβs clash with Siwelele FC, with Bradley Cross, Paseka Mako and Kabelo Nkgwesa all returning to training.
Rushwin Dortely has also hit the grass as he continues his return to full fitness, giving coach Fernando Da Cruz an increasingly strong squad to work with as the new season gathers momentum.
The return of Cross, Mako and Nkgwesa is particularly significant for the Amakhosi, with the club now having all of its LCB/LB options available for Sundayβs encounter.
That leaves Da Cruz with a welcome selection headache, as the Chiefs coach will have to make some difficult decisions over who starts and who makes the matchday squad.
Competition for places is expected to intensify, with players returning from injury and pushing for minutes at a crucial stage of the campaign.
There is further positive news on the injury front, with Ashley Mayo tipped to return to action within the next week or so.
If Mayoβs recovery progresses as expected, Kaizer Chiefs could head into the derby with as much as 98% of their squad available.
For Da Cruz, the challenge is no longer simply about finding enough fit players-it is now about selecting the right combination from an increasingly competitive squad.
Sundayβs meeting with Siwelele could therefore provide an early indication of how the Chiefs coach intends to manage his growing selection options.