Chippa United head coach Kwanele Kopo has opened-up on the challenges and progress of striker Azola Matrose, who recently returned to the Chilli Boys from Orlando Pirates.
The 21-year-old completed a surprise return to the Eastern Cape outfit after two seasons as Pirates player. Tragically, Matrose never got a chance to don the Pirates shirt in a competitive match after struggling to recovery from a long-term injury.
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However, all parties concerned that a return to Chippa could be the perfect place for Matrose to revive his career and fulfil the potential he has shown as one of the league's most promising young players.
Matrose could face his former team as Chippa will open 24/25 Betway Premiership season with a clash against The Buccaneers.
"Azola [Matrose] has been with us for about three weeks," Kopo said at the Premiership launch on Tuesday when asked about Matrose's readiness for the season.
"When he came back from Pirates, hews going though rehab, he was recovering from injury. So the first two weeks sideline training
"He only started training last week Thursday so we have had less than five training sessions with him but we believe he will be ready for the Pirates game
"Whether he will start or make an impact from the bench, that will be clear in the next week or so but bar injury in the next week or so, Azola should definitely be in the squad to face Pirates and start the league.
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Alongside Matrose, Chippa have had a busy transfer window, having signed Andile Jali, Xolani Sithole and Aphelele Teto among others.
Pirates host The Chilli Boys at Orlando Stadium on 18 September.