Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has explained his decision to withdraw goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma before their Absa Premiership clash with Black Leopards.

Bvuma was set to make his second start for Amakhosi this campaign against Leopards but was forced to withdraw from the squad.

However, Middendorp revealed that the Bafana Bafana shotstopper withdrew from the match-day squad after feeling groin discomfort during the week and had to be replaced by Daniel Akpeyi.

‘Bruce Bvuma felt some discomfort to his groin area during the week,’ Middendorp told his club’s official website.

‘The technical team thought he was going to be fine to play but unfortunately the pain persisted during warm-up. We took a decision to withdraw him and put him on the bench because we didn’t want to risk aggravating the injury.’

The German mentor has been delighted with the performances of both Bvuma and Akpeyi, while confirming that Itumeleng Khune is one full training session away from making his return from injury.

‘We have resolved that area with both Bruce Bvuma and Daniel Akpeyi doing well,’ he added.

‘You saw on Saturday Akpeyi did well. His presence and command of the back row was fantastic. Work on Itumeleng Khune continues. He’s been playing in some practice matches. He is left with only one full practice match to be available for selection.’

Kaizer Chiefs will host SuperSport United to square off in the next Absa Premiership fixture at the FNB Stadium, with kick-off set for 6pm.