Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a significant setback following news that defender Rushwin Dortley has undergone knee surgery after sustaining an injury during a recent league match at the beginning of the month.
The injury has already kept him out of action for three crucial fixtures against Magesi FC, Stellenbosch FC, and Cape Town City, leaving the team without one of their key defensive assets.
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Dortley's injury has not only affected his club commitments but has also dashed his hopes of representing Bafana Bafana in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The talented defender was named in the preliminary squad and was eagerly anticipating the opportunity to don his national colours again.
Unfortunately, he will now have to put his international aspirations on hold as he focuses on his rehabilitation and recovery process.
Amakhosi have confirmed the news of Dortley's operation on the club's official website.
"Kaizer Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley has successfully undergone knee surgery following an injury sustained during a recent league match at the beginning of the month. The unfortunate incident left the talented player sidelined for the past three matches, against Magesi FC, Stellenbosch FC and Cape Town City," confirmed Chiefs.
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"Dortley's injury has also affected his international prospects. He was looking forward to representing Bafana Bafana in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers next week after making the preliminary squad list – a call-up that he will now have to sacrifice as he focuses on recovery. The surgery was deemed essential to ensure a full recovery, and reports indicate it went smoothly. Amakhosi's medical team is optimistic about Dortley's prognosis, which is encouraging both for the player and the Club. While the timeline for his return remains uncertain, there is hope that he will be back on the field donning the iconic Gold Black colours in the not-too-distant future. As the Club rallies behind Rushwin during this challenging time, everyone wishes him a speedy recovery process and looks forward to seeing him back on the field, ready to contribute to the team's success once again," concluded the club.