Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has revealed whether Themba Zwane will be available to play the FIFA Club World Cup in the USA in June.
The club’s captain has made a significant step in his recovery, recently returning to training at Chloorkop following a prolonged absence due to a long-term Achilles injury.
Although back in training, the 35-year-old is yet to be available for team selection as Sundowns carefully manage his return.
However, coach Cardoso has confirmed that Zwane will be ready for the Club World Cup, stating he will be fit way before the tournament.
Cardoso further indicated that Zwane is expected to gain match fitness by featuring in some of the remaining Betway Premiership fixtures this season.
CARDOSO ON THEMBA ZWANE’S CHANCES FOR CLUB WORLD CUP
“For sure Themba will recover in time, not only for the World Cup but also to play before [the season ends],” said Cardoso.
“So, we have an expectation that he can recover with Mothobi [Mvala], Divine [Lunga] and [Khuliso] Mudau in different steps but he will come back much sooner than that [in June].
“Let’s hope…because there’s one thing about physical recovery to play football but another thing is recover to perform, that’s another step.
“One thing is he’s able to train but until he’s able to perform, that’s another way or more steps to do. We should also understand that.
“It’s not the same as Mudau who’s out for one month or Divine who’s out for three weeks. For Themba, it’s been months so the process will take longer.
“But he’s working very good, that’s what I’m demanding from them. Let’s hope that he can play before the World Cup.”
