Kaizer Chiefs coach Steve Komphela is hoping Siphiwe Tshabalala will recover from his injury before the Carling Black Label Cup on 29 July.

The 32-year-old midfielder failed to reach match fitness in time for Amakhosi’s participation in the Maize Cup, following his injury.

Komphela says the club are helping Tshabala nurse his way back to full match fitness for their upcoming cup tie against Orlando Pirates later in the month.

“Shabba is a great influence and has great experience and is [popular] among the supporters here [at the James Motlatsi Stadium],” Komphela told SuperSport TV.

“We are trying to get him ready, but you know how it is – injuries sometimes take a while to heal and we are trying to nurse him.

“So, by the 29th when we play the Carling Black Label Cup he should be ready because I’m sure these beautiful people are going to vote for him.”

Tshabalala enjoyed a good 2016-17 campaign following his eight goals and three assists from 29 appearances in all competitions, while also winning the Absa-Lutely Awesome Goal of the Season at the PSL awards ceremony.

– This story originally appeared on SportsClub.co.za