Injured Kaizer Chiefs defender Edmilson Dove provides update on his fitness amid strong competition from Rushwin Dortley - ‘Hopefully, I will soon be back’

Edmilson Dove, in his final year at Kaizer Chiefs, is recovering well from an injury sustained during the club's preseason in Turkey.

He hopes to be fit after Christmas and is eager to return to the team as a versatile option in defence.

His recovery is important for Chiefs as they rely on his ability to play both left-back and centre-back.

Dove also aims to rejoin the Mozambique national team for upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

"By the grace of God, I have been recovering well," said Dove on the club's website.

"I have started running on the field, still doing functional work and strengthening. Hopefully, I will soon be back training with my teammates, featuring in games, and working myself back into the national team, which is something I will focus on once I'm fully recovered."

Dove's greatest moment, he says, is “bringing joy to the people of my country amidst the turmoil. With everything going on in my country, going through a difficult time qualifying brought joy to the people. As they say, football unites people. I think those are the moments where we go on the field for the people. It was pleasing to see smiles on their faces when we qualified.

"We are excited about the prospect of playing in the Afcon tournament," he concludes.

"It's a huge competition, and we are looking forward to the challenge. We will work hard to make sure we are well-prepared and make our country proud."

Dove’s recovery is crucial for Chiefs, as he faces competition for the left-back position from Bongani Sam and Bradley Cross.

However, Dove’s versatility allows him to also play as a centre-back, which provides valuable cover and competition with Bafana Bafana international Rushwin Dortley.

His return to full fitness would be a significant boost to Chiefs' defensive options and depth.

Dove has stiff competition in defence in the Chiefs team and his injuries have not helped his course.

He has a tough job on his hands to remove Dortley from the starting team, who has broken into the Bafana Bafana team.

Dove's priority is to recover fully and fight for his place in the Chiefs lineup.

He aims to get back into the Mozambique national team and contribute to their Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

His versatility will be crucial in securing his role in both Chiefs and the national team.