Kaizer Chiefs star Siphiwe Tshabalala has spoken of his delight at making his first appearance of the season.

Tshabalala missed the start of the season after picking up a knee injury during Amakhosi’s final friendly of the pre-season against Chippa United.

The Bafana Bafana international came off the bench in the closing stages of the MTN8 semi-final, second leg win over Platinum Stars on Sunday to rapturous applause from the Chiefs faithful.

“It felt good to be back on the pitch again. I have been out for a while and missed competing professionally. It is my job to play and now I can get back to doing what I love,” Tshabalala said.

He added:  “I would like to thank everyone who supported me through my injury and those that kept me in their thoughts.

“As players we are always looking to avoid injuries, but they are part and parcel of the game. So I am just happy that I can play again and the injury is now behind me.”