Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has addressed the return of right-back Khuliso Mudau, who had been sidelined in the last four matches.
The 29-year-old defender was excluded from the squad alongside Teboho Mokoena for two CAF Champions League fixtures against Mbabane Swallows, as well as Betway Premiership matches against SuperSport United and Marumo Gallants.
Mngqithi's choice to omit the duo faced significant backlash, particularly as both were not nursing any injuries.
Mudau was named in the squad for the encounter against the formidable Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday, although he began the match on the bench.
The former Black Leopards player was introduced in the 74th minute of the second half, as Mngqithi sought to strengthen his defence while the Amakhosi aimed to level the score.
With Sundowns winning 2-1 at the end, Mngqithi expressed his satisfaction with Mudau's return and praised the positive influence he had on the game.
He added that he felt that it was the perfect time to bring the defender back.
MNGQITHI ON THE RETURN OF DEFENDER MUDAU
“Yah man it was nice to have Mudau back, like I said even before that they are going to come back and help us a lot,” said Mngqithi.
“I think today it was the right time to bring him and he did very well. He proved the quality that he has.
“No doubt, defensively he’s one of the best players you can ever have. In one against one, I think he’s in a class of his own.
“It was pleasing to see him performing the way he performed today, I was very happy.”