Mhango returns to Richards Bay training after Malawi rehab
by Sipho Mlotha · KickOffAfter spending several weeks in his native land of Malawi, well-travelled striker Gabadinho Mhango has made a return to South Africa.
The 33-year-old returned to Richards Bay FC training on Monday following his rehabilitation in Malawi. This is after he underwent corrective surgery in winter after suffering an Achilles injury sustained in November, but he has now indicated that he could make a return to the field if all goes well.
READ| Mhango provides update on Richards Bay future
The injury was understood to have sparked significant controversy between the player and the KwaZulu-Natal-based outfit, who have been accused of not fulfilling its contractual obligations by refusing to cover the medical and operation costs.
It is reported that the Football Association of Malawi president stepped in personally to pay for Mhango's surgery bills and supported the 33-year-old's rehabilitation process during his stay there.
Just a matter of fitness - striker eyes playing return
“I'm back in South Africa. I'm just finishing my recovery; I'm wrapping up my recovery. I'm no longer training on my own; I'm now training with the rest of the team,” he confirmed, speaking exclusively to KickOff.
“But I'm also doing some extra training on my own, just to catch up with the team in terms of fitness because it's been a long time.
“As for the club not fulfilling their contractual obligations, [laughs]... that one I cannot comment on; I don't want to lie.
READ| Mhango reveals details of his injury
“But what I can say is, I cannot say the exact date I will be back playing, because I can say next month, only to find that it happens sooner than that.
“It's just a matter of fitness. Yesterday, I was with the guys at training,” he adds.
With Richard’s Bay FC currently ranked 13th on the Betway Premiership table, he would be hoping to make a positive contribution to the KZN-based franchise.