Having missed last weekend's Soweto Derby, Kaizer Chiefs defender Inacio Miguel has provided an update on his fitness ahead of the Nedbank Cup showdown against Orlando Pirates.
Chiefs are set to lock horns with their arch-rivals Pirates at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with eyes on the Nedbank Cup prize that comes with R7 million in the bank account.
The fixture presents a rare opportunity to end a decade-long drought, while Bucs will be aiming to successfully defend the title as a perfect send-off for departing tactician Jose Riveiro.
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To that end, head coach Nasreddine Nabi has to salvage what has been a disastrous first campaign at the Village.
A 10th-place finish, although embarrassing, may be somewhat forgiven if coupled with a Nedbank Cup title.
The Tunisian-Belgian may have to attempt to deliver the trophy at the club's base in Johannesburg without two of his most trusted players, though. Thabo Cele and vice-captain Inacio Miguel are a doubt for the final, having recently returned from their respective injuries.
Cele was brought on as a second-half substitute in the league derby, while Miguel feels he is ready for a return to action.
"I have been working hard after the injury," said the Angolan, speaking to journalists at Naturena earlier this week.
"My mission was not only the Soweto Derby last week but also the final. My focus was always to recover as fast as possible. I'm doing my best to get in shape. I'm getting fit.
"I hope I can help the team on Saturday. But it's up to the coach as well," he declared.
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It remains to be seen who, if selected, Miguel will partner with in the heart of the defence after Bradley Cross received his marching orders last Saturday. Should Edmilson Dove be moved to left back, then Zitha Kwinika could slot in with Given Msimango not yet ready to feature.
Kick-off is at 15:30.
