Chiefs receive timely CAF boost as recently injured star makes Zambia trip

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz will be able to call on Luke Baartman after the striker made the trip to Zambia for their CAF Confederation Cup match.

Chiefs will face off with Zambian outfit Red Arrows in the second preliminary round and the game comes at a time when Da Cruz has been juggling his squad which has a number of injuries.

During his team’s 1-1 draw with Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday, Chefs were without Baartman, Brandon Petersen, Langelihle Phili, Lebohang Maboe and Siphesihle Ndlovu due to various injuries.

Baartman’s return boosts Chiefs

However, while the other three will not be available, the tactician can look forward to having Baartman in his squad after he joined the rest for their trip to Zambia for Saturday’s match.

Baartman had been injured while on international duty before the club made an update regarding his situation.

“Chiefs have welcomed back three players who were away on duty with the South African U23 national team, adding depth and energy to the squad,” the club stated last week.

Amakhosi target continental glory

“The medical team is closely monitoring Luke Baartman after he picked up an injury, and updates on his progress, along with other sidelined players, will be shared ahead of the clash.”

Chiefs arrived in Zambia on Saturday to continue their preparations for the continental match and Baartman’s availability is a timely boost as he had been in good form before the international break.

The former Cape Town Spurs forward has played eight games this season, starting six, and scored his first goal for the club against Sekhukhune United in August.