Kaizer Chiefs’ injury crisis has worsened, with the club’s defensive options particularly stretched early in the season.
Head coach Fernando Da Cruz has been forced to use several players out of position after a series of injuries left him without his preferred left-back options.
The latest blow came when Reeve Frosler, who had been deployed at left-back, suffered a torn hamstring. The injury could keep him sidelined for several weeks, further limiting Da Cruz’s options.
The left-back crisis began during pre-season, with Nkanyiso Shinga, Paseka Mako and Bradley Cross all picking up injuries.
Kaizer Chiefs have all left-backs injured
“All the left-backs are injured,” Da Cruz said after Chiefs’ 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns this past weekend.
“We were unlucky in the last few days in the left full-back position. Between the Sekhukhune United game and today [Saturday], we lost two more players to injury, who are Reeve [Frosler] and Kabelo [Nkgwesa].”
Kaizer Chiefs have made six signings during the current transfer window, but only one of those arrivals is a defender.
Thabo Moloisane was brought in to strengthen the centre-back department, but the former Stellenbosch defender has made just one appearance so far.
That leaves Amakhosi with a major problem at left-back, and it remains to be seen whether the club will return to the transfer market for another option.
Kaizer Chiefs could have Cross back
There is, however, some encouraging news for Amakhosi. Cross has been spotted back in training with the squad, suggesting that his injury may not be as serious as initially feared.
If his recovery continues smoothly, Cross could be available for selection when Kaizer Chiefs return to action next month.
Until then, Da Cruz will have to find solutions to a defensive crisis that is rapidly becoming one of the biggest challenges facing his side.
Amakhosi players who are out injured are Khanyisa Mayo, Cross, Shinga, Mako and Frosler.
