Kaizer Chiefs’ Uruguayan playmaker, Gaston Sirino, is in a race against time to be fit for the Carling Knockout Cup fixture scheduled for the weekend of October 19th. Sirino, a high-profile signing from Mamelodi Sundowns during the offseason, suffered an abductor muscle injury in Chiefs’ recent league match against his former club, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming cup clash.
This news has disappointed Amakhosi fans, who have been thrilled by Sirino’s early impact at the club. He has quickly become a fan favorite, delivering a goal and two assists in his first three starts for Chiefs.
With the draw for the second edition of the Carling Knockout Cup taking place in Johannesburg on Tuesday, October 8th, Chiefs supporters will be anxiously awaiting updates on Sirino’s recovery.
Club physiotherapist Dave Milner provided an optimistic update on Sirino’s condition, stating that the midfielder is “improving nicely” and is expected to return to full training within two weeks. However, with the cup fixture looming, it remains uncertain whether Sirino will be match-fit in time.
“Gaston Sirino sustained an abductor muscle injury in the last match, but he is improving nicely. We expect him to be back in full training within two weeks,” Milner said.
The ongoing FIFA international break has offered Chiefs a chance to focus on the rehabilitation of their injured players. Milner also provided updates on the fitness of George Matlou, Tebogo Potsane, Edmilson Dove, and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen.
Matlou is on track for a November return, while Potsane, who had just resumed training, suffered fresh ankle ligament damage and will be sidelined for three weeks. Edmilson Dove, recovering from a preseason injury, is now out of his protective boot and is expected to start running in November. Petersen, meanwhile, has had the pins removed from his finger and is cleared for full training.
With Sirino’s availability still in doubt, Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi will likely turn to other attacking options. Young talents like Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala may need to step up to provide the creative flair in Sirino’s absence.
The Carling Knockout Cup is a prestigious competition, and Kaizer Chiefs are eager to end their nine-year trophy drought. A fully fit Gaston Sirino would significantly boost their chances, but they may need to rely on squad depth if he is unable to recover in time.