Kaizer Chiefs coach Giovanni Solinas has admitted to being in the dark over the fitness of both Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat ahead of the Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates, writes DEAN WORKMAN.

Both star attackers missed last weekend’s penalty shootout victory over Black Leopards in the Telkom Knockout through injury. Billiat picked up a back problem while on duty with Zimbabwe last week, while Castro has been battling with an ankle issue.

Watch: Full Soweto derby press conference

Billiat and Castro, who formed a formidable partnership while playing together at Mamelodi Sundowns, will represent a big blow should they not be fit for the encounter. Solinas admitted on Wednesday, during a press conference building up to the clash at the FNB Stadium, that he would wait until the last possible minute to make a decision.

‘We have two more days to train and make the decision,’ said the Italian coach.

READ: Five players who could star for Pirates in the Soweto derby

‘These players [Billiat and Castro] are under observation. The report from the medical team has not come yet.

‘They are training with the team, but I don’t know [if they will be ready],’ concluded Solinas.

READ: Five areas Chiefs can fine-tune for Soweto derby

Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix