Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango on his return to the field: I am happy to be back and to also contribute positively to the team after injury

Given Msimango has expressed joy at his return to the Kaizer Chiefs starting line-up.

The former TS Galaxy captain has struggled to cement his place in Naturena and that was also compounded by various stints in the medical room.

He was out for seven months due to a groin injury which nearly cost him the entire season but the centre back said he was thrilled to be donning the gold and black Amakhosi shirt this season.

“For me, I'm really, really happy to be back, to be honest, because I faced a very difficult time over the past year with a recurring injury. So, returning to full fitness and full health is number one. I'm really glad about that," said Msimango.

“And coming back to the team, it's always been my desire to contribute the best I can to this club, irrespective of the number of minutes that I've had or whether or not I'm playing.

"As long as I'm here and contributing, I'm very happy and satisfied with that. Defensively, to sum it up, it's been a collective effort."

"It hasn't been easy. Like I said, there was a string of bad results that happened. The sole responsibility when you lose a game lies with the defence. So, we had to regroup, come together and refocus. And I think that has helped us get the results that we've got in the past few games."

It’s likely he will start in defence today when they face Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium.

The match starts at 3pm.