Bidvest Wits coach Gavin Hunt hopes to get Phakamani Mahlambi back to match fitness in late December following his return from injury.

The 19-year-old sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury in February, sidelining him for nine months after an impressive debut in the Absa Premiership during the 2015-16 season.

Mahlambi managed to score a total of four goals and assisted a further three from 16 appearances before the injury ruled him out.

The 52-year-old coach says he hopes to get Mahlambi ready and match fit by late December.

‘Phakamani is training. James [Keene] is training. But Phakamani needs nine months – it’s seven and a half now‚’ Hunt said.

‘So, for me it looks like February‚ because in January there is no football. Maybe I can get him back in late December‚ give him 20 minutes or so. Because he’s the X factor. He’s the best player in South Africa.’

Hunt praised the young forward and feels he can give the Clever Boys the same kind of edge as Mamelodi Sundowns’ Khama Billiat.

‘If you compare him to a Khama Billiat – Billiat’s 25‚ this boy’s 19. Okay, he’s had a major problem. But he’s the same type of player, he’s got the same elusiveness and ability to turn. Quickness‚ pace – all those things‚ he’s got that.’

When the Absa Premiership returns, Bidvest Wits take on Platinum Stars on 19 November.

The match at Royal Bafokeng Stadium kicks off at 20:15.