Despite initial reported suggestions for Kaizer Chiefs to terminate defender Edmilson Dove's contract, circumstances have changed in favour of the Mozambique-born player, the Siya crew has been informed.
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Dove was not thought to be included in coach Nasreddine Nabi's plans. However, following injuries to left-back Bradley Cross and (earlier) Bongani Sam, the club has decided to retain Dove for longer than initially expected.
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Insiders at the club stated that Dove is now expected to step up, having recently recovered from his own injury.
"They need an experienced left back who can work with Happy Mashiane at the moment since Bradley (Cross) is still recovering from his respective injury. Yes, Dove is also still recovering but he is very close to playing and that is why they have put his release on hold for now. I can't say what will happen at the end of the season because his contract is ending in June 2025. So, instead of him being released in January as previously believed they are holding onto him to see that the other left backs come back," the Siya source stated.
A second insider stated that Dove's potential retention is believed to be a temporary measure, with plans to release him at the end of the season once the team's left-back options stabilise.
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"You remember even keeping him in the team was like an emergency? They recalled him from the Mozambique national team when they were going to Turkey and they had not signed Bongani (Sam) and Bradley (Cross) and now that they have those two plus Happy Mashiane and the two youngsters from the DDC, Nkosana Mbuthu and Ofentse Kgosana so they will be covered going forward. They are keeping Dove for the time being to have experience in that department though they will also be using Thatayaone Ditlhokwe as a left back as well in some games at the moment," the second insider stated.
Dove, who joined Chiefs as a free agent after Cape Town City opted not to renew his contract, has spent two seasons with the team. He played many games in his first season, and a fair amount last season, and has yet to feature this season due to an injury sustained during pre-season in Turkey, from which he has now recovered.
Attempts to reach Chiefs for comment were unsuccessful at the time of preparing this story.
Dove's continued presence at Chiefs underscores the importance of experienced players in navigating injury disruptions. While his stay may be temporary, Dove's contributions during this challenging period could be vital in maintaining defensive stability and supporting the team's overall performance.
