Kaizer Chiefs' Kabelo Mahlasela back in action and raring to go

Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Kabelo Mahlasela reveals his excitement after returning from a long-term injury and is looking forward to the new 2018/19 Premier Soccer League (PSL) campaign.

The nippy player joined Amakhosi from Bloemfontein Celtic in January this year, but suffered an injury.

Due to the knee injury which forced him to go under the knife, has been unable to endear himself to Chiefs family, but says this is the right time for him to now showcase his quality.

As Chiefs are preparing for the Maize Cup pre-season tournament set to be staged at James Motlatsi Stadium in the North West on Saturday, Mahlasela expressed readiness for the pre-season showpiece.

The 27-year-old midfielder is expected to improve Chiefs' attack as they look to put their three-year trophy drought behind them.

Moreover, the arrival of Khama Billiat after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns could give the Soweto giants a new lease of life.  

“I am looking forward to the Maize Cup,” Mahlasela told the club’s website.

“I will be ready and give it my best, if I am given an opportunity to play in our game against Buya Msuthu,” added the Sebokeng-born player.

“It was difficult. I wanted to show everybody what I could do. Instead, I was out for the rest of the season,” reflected the midfielder. 

“It was hard, but everybody stood behind me, including our supporters whose backing was such a moral boost. It’s now up to me to repay all those people with my performances on the field,” he added. 

“It’s great to be back in full training with the guys,” the 27-year-old continued. 

“I want to repay the Kaizer Chiefs supporters and the club’s management for all the support they have given me over the last few months,” concluded the skillful player.

Meanwhile, as Chiefs are under the stewardship of interim coach Patrick Mabedi and Arthur Zwane, they will meet will face ABC Motsepe league side Buya Msuthu in the first semi-final of the Maize Cup.

The match will see new defender Letlhogonolo Mirwa facing his ex-teammates in a clash set for 10:00 and a winner will face off against Chippa United or Free State Stars in the final at 16:00 at the same venue.