Kaizer Chiefs’ injury problems are worsening, with the club’s left-back position at the centre of an early-season defensive crisis.
Head coach Fernando Da Cruz has been forced to move players into unfamiliar roles after a series of injuries left him without any of his preferred choices on the left side of defence.
The latest setback involved Reeve Frosler, who had been filling in at left-back before suffering a torn hamstring. He could now be unavailable for several weeks, leaving Da Cruz with even fewer options.
The club’s problems in that position began during pre-season, when Nkanyiso Shinga, Paseka Mako and Bradley Cross all suffered injuries.
“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].”
Frosler’s injury came after Chiefs had already been forced to cope with a shortage of natural left-backs. The situation has also raised questions about whether the club may need to consider another move in the transfer market.
Chiefs have signed six players during the current transfer window, but only one of those arrivals is a defender.
Thabo Moloisane was recruited to add strength at centre-back, although the former Stellenbosch defender has made only one appearance so far. His arrival has therefore not addressed the immediate shortage at left-back.
The lack of available options leaves Amakhosi facing a major defensive challenge, with Da Cruz needing to find short-term solutions until more players recover.
There was at least some positive news for the club when Bradley Cross was seen back in training with the squad. His return suggests that his injury may not have been as serious as first feared.
If his recovery continues without further problems, Cross could be considered for selection when Kaizer Chiefs return to action next month.
Until then, Da Cruz must manage a defensive unit that has been hit by a succession of injuries at the start of the season. The club’s current list of injured players includes Khanyisa Mayo, Bradley Cross, Nkanyiso Shinga, Paseka Mako and Reeve Frosler.
The injuries have left Chiefs particularly exposed at left-back, while the limited defensive additions made during the transfer window mean the club’s existing squad will be required to cover the position in the short term.
