Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp says he is pinning his hopes on the return of many injured players. Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune will return next month while other key players such as Eric Mathoho, Lebohang Manyama, Happy Mashiane, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo have all recovered from long term injuries.

Chiefs have also strengthened the team by signing four foreigners in Lazarus Kambole, Kearyn Baccus, Samir Nurkovic and James Kotei.

Chiefs lost to Orlando Pirates 2-0 in the Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday. One of the players who impressed for the unimpressive Chiefs was right back Reeve Frosler.

The former Bidvest Wits player came on in the second half and made an impact to impress his coach.

Middendorp also lamented the fact that most of his players such as Khama Billiat, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Daniel Cardoso and Kotei were suffering from fatigue due to not having a break during the off season. – Report by Vincent Sitsula