“I’m feeling better and hope to play some role on Wednesday,” Erick ‘Tower’ Mathoho revealed after yesterday afternoon’s pre-match training session. The defender sustained a groin injury two weeks ago.

“It is always difficult to watch from the sidelines, especially when the team is not doing well. I want to be part of the battle in the park to contribute to us getting back on track.”

Kaizer Chiefs welcome Bloemfontein Celtic at FNB Stadium on Wednesday night. Kick-off is at 19:30.

The lanky central defender is relishing an opportunity to play against his former team, Bloemfontein Celtic. Tower joined Amakhosi in 2012 from Siwelele.

“I enjoyed good times there, but that’s a long time ago to ponder too often about,” Mathoho commented. “My focus is on Chiefs and on tomorrow’s match. We are not comfortable to be at position seven on the log. We must collect maximum points at home.”

“We are experiencing a slump in form,” the 26-year-old Mathoho comments about the recent results. “We have three matches before the Christmas break to make things right. Our supporters deserve some celebration. We want to put a smile on their face ahead of the festive season.”

“The preparations for the Celtic match have gone well,” the defender concludes. “We are missing a number of our teammates though, due to injuries. We are ready to play and win this match.”

Missing tomorrow’s action will be Enocent Mkhabela, who is ruled out due to abdominal pain, while Sibusiso Khumalo and Willlard Katsande are serving suspensions for a red card and accumulated bookings respectively.

Goalkeepers Brylon Petersen and Luthando Sixhaso are slowly but surely returning to the training ground after suffering knee injuries a month ago. Tsepo Masilela, meanwhile, is doubtful and goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune will go through a late fitness test.

Last season, Amakhosi took four points off Phunya Sele Sele, winning 1-0 in Bloemfontein before playing out to a goalless draw in the return match.

The stage is set for a tantalising encounter between Chiefs and Celtic at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening, 14 December (kick-off is at 19:30).

Tickets are sold for R40 at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers outlets nationwide.