- Kaizer Chiefs striker Luke Baartman made the trip to Zambia despite picking up an injury during the international break
- The Soweto giants face Zambian side Red Arrows in the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup
- Several other Amakhosi players remain unavailable as coach Fernando da Cruz manages a squad stretched by injuries
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz received a welcome lift ahead of Saturday's CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round tie against Zambian club Red Arrows, with striker Luke Baartman joining the travelling squad.
Baartman had been absent from Chiefs' 1-1 league draw with Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday, having sustained an injury during South Africa Under-23 national team duty. At the time, the club confirmed its medical team was tracking his recovery.
"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 said in a statement last week.
"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," the club added.
**Baartman's Return Boosts Chiefs**
His inclusion in the Zambia-bound group comes as a timely development for Da Cruz, who has had to manage a depleted pool of players heading into continental competition. Brandon Petersen, Langelihle Phili, Lebohang Maboe and Siphesihle Ndlovu were all absent from the Stellenbosch fixture due to injuries and will not travel with the squad.
Baartman's availability carries added weight given his form before the international break. The former Cape Town Spurs forward has featured in eight matches this season, completing six starts, and netted his first goal for Amakhosi against Sekhukhune United in August.
**Amakhosi Target Continental Glory**
The squad arrived in Zambia on Saturday to prepare for the continental assignment. The Red Arrows tie represents Chiefs' bid to progress in the CAF Confederation Cup, one of Africa's premier club competitions, and a competition the Soweto giants are eager to make an impact in under Da Cruz.
With several key players still sidelined, Baartman's presence in Zambia offers the coaching staff greater attacking options as they look to secure a result on the road.
Source: Briefly News
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