Kaizer Chiefs Receive Major Boost as Rushwin Dortley Returns from Injury

Kaizer Chiefs have received a timely boost ahead of the new season with the return of defender Rushwin Dortley, who is now back in full training after a lengthy injury layoff. The 23-year-old Bafana Bafana international missed a large part of last season due to a knee injury, but sources at Naturena have confirmed that he has fully recovered and is set to join the squad for their pre-season tour of the Netherlands.

As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Dortley’s absence last season was felt across Amakhosi’s defensive line, with many attributing the team’s inconsistent performances at the back to the lack of a stable and commanding presence. His return is seen as a major boost for the squad and newly appointed head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who will be looking to reshape the team’s defensive identity.

“He is back. He did the medicals and it’s believed that he is fit and ready to travel with the team for the pre-season. Obviously, that’s a big boost to the side and the technical team. It’s believed that his injury brought a disturbance to the defence last season, so it’s good that he is fit again before the start of the season,” an insider told Soccer Laduma.

Dortley joined Kaizer Chiefs from Cape Town Spurs last season and quickly established himself as a regular in the team before the unfortunate injury setback. After undergoing successful surgery and rehabilitation, the versatile defender now looks ready to reclaim his place in the starting XI and contribute to the club’s ambitions in the upcoming Betway Premiership campaign.

Despite Dortley’s return, Chiefs are reportedly still in the market for another defensive signing. Following the acquisition of Nkanyiso Shinga, the club is said to be searching for a defender who can play in multiple positions across the backline.

“Apart from a striker and another midfielder, the club is still looking at signing one more defender. They are looking at someone versatile. A defender who can be comfortable playing in different defensive roles. They could be announcing one soon if they can get the kind of defender they are looking for,” a second source revealed.

With Dortley’s return, the addition of Shinga, and the potential arrival of another defensive reinforcement, Kaizer Chiefs are clearly prioritising a more solid and adaptable backline. The aim is to rebuild the team’s defensive resilience as they prepare for what promises to be a demanding season under new leadership.

As Chiefs head to the Netherlands for their pre-season training camp, the return of a fully fit Dortley offers a renewed sense of optimism. It also gives coach Nabi a valuable opportunity to test combinations and integrate the young defender into his tactical plans ahead of a fresh start for the Glamour Boys.