Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane is confident that this is not the end for veteran midfielder Oupa Manyisa as he will return to action.

The 31-year-old was forced off the field through injury in the first half of Sundowns’ 4-2 defeat by Kaizer Chiefs in the 2019 Shell Helix Ultra Cup at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Sundowns also confirmed that Manyisa will need surgery on his right achilles tendon, and the medical team will give a further update on his expected time on the sidelines.

Mosimane insists that Manyisa should use Sibusiso Vilakazi as his inspiration during his recovery and rehabilitation from his ankle injury.

‘This injury of snapping the achilles, it happened to Morgan Gould and he was 32 and where is he?’ Mosimane told the media.

‘It happened to Sbu Vilakazi when he was with Bafana.

‘I think Oupa must just look at Vilakazi. Vilakazi came four weeks ahead of the programme, four ahead of the normal rehab and turnaround and it was amazing but we know why because every day he was at the gym, looking after himself, weighing himself not gaining any weight. On the treadmill, in the pool, strengthening and eating right. It is unbelievable, his programme.’

He continued: ‘Maybe it is genetics, I don’t know, but I know the programme now because I was watching the boy passing by the other side with his head down and working hard. What a professional. I think Oupa must just look at him. Sit with Vilakazi and our physio.

‘He will be back. We will support him. I don’t think he is done. He has speed in his legs, you must see it. When your speed goes then you must let go but he still has speed in his legs and he must look at Kekana, he is still playing and what a football player.’

Mamelodi Sundowns are set to welcome AmaZulu to the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday in the Telkom Knockout Cup, with kick-off set for 3pm.