adminJOHANNESBURG. – Former midfielder Frank Makua is hoping that Kaizer Chiefs talisman Khama Billiat can return to action to prolong his spell at the Soweto giants.
Billiat has endured a frustrating campaign besieged by injuries, with his current contract at Chiefs set to expire at the end of the season.
Head coach Arthur Zwane was non-committal on the club offering the 32-year-old a contract extension beyond his current deal.
“To be honest, he didn’t have a good season, I think it’s because of his never-ending injuries,” Makua tells KickOff.
“Yes, it will be sad to lose him because of his experience.
“I don’t know what’s the real problem with him always getting injured, he plays three or four matches then he’s out.
“I’m not saying he is finished, but maybe it’s the age factor. But let’s hope and pray he gets an opportunity to save his job before the end of the season. Let’s hope he recovers.”
He added:
“Because, to be honest, you need his experience in teams like Kaizer Chiefs.
“Chiefs do need his experience to guide the youngsters. Let’s hope he recovers from his injury by the end of April so he can feature in some of the games.
“That will allow the club to decide properly if they must renew his contract.
“At the moment, his issue is very complicated, but as for me, I do need his experience at Chiefs.
“It’s just that we will never know how much damage his injuries have caused in terms of pace.
“Obviously, he can no longer play as a striker or winger but can be used as a number 10.” – KickOff.com
. . . set to return from long-term injury
JOHANNESBURG. – Kaizer Chiefs attacker Khama Billiat is seemingly close to making a return to first-team action after a spell on the sidelines due to a long-term injury ahead of a DStv Premiership clash against Stellenbosch FC.
Billiat was spotted undergoing light individual training yesterday as Amakhosi put in some of their final preparations for tomorrow’s upcoming DStv Premiership clash against Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium.
‘Gaucho’ has endured a frustrating season with Amakhosi, plagued by injuries with just 11 appearances across all competitions, contributing three assists.
Billiat missed five games in the first round of the season due to a knee injury and has not featured at all for Chiefs in the second half of the campaign due to a groin injury.
Billiat last featured in a competitive match for Chiefs in October last year.
Along with Eric Mathoho and Cole Alexander, the attacker is understood to be one of several players headed for the exit door at Naturena with his contract running out at the end of June.
At the age of 32 and with a poor record of injuries, the Amakhosi hierarchy are unlikely to offer Billiat a new contract, with the former Sundowns forward already being one of the club’s highest earners.
However, Billiat could still look to fight for a place in the team as he edges closer to match-fitness. – KickOff.com
Online Reporter