Jimmy Tau believes it is through the grace of God that he is back playing football again.

Tau affectionately known as ‘Big V’ sustained an injury in the last game of the 2011/2012 season against AmaZulu an injury that ruled him out for three months.

Further tests in September last year revealed that he had torn the ligament between the 1st and 2nd toe (Lis – Franc injury).

“The injury sustained against AmaZulu in the last game of the season on the 19th of May summed up the season where we had not done well as the Club,” said Tau speaking to kaizerchiefs.com on Wednesday reflecting on his first injury where he fractured his fibula.

“I was of course looking forward to coming back to the team in September and trained even though I was still feeling a little bit of discomfort.

“I was told by the Medical Team when I went for another test that I have another injury and I will miss the rest of the season. I was shocked and heartbroken. It was obviously a setback for me.

“I had a choice after receiving the news to allow it to break me or be strong. I chose the latter because I always tell myself; “tough times never last but tough people do”.

“I have experienced ups and downs in the past couple of seasons but I have been able to bounce back. I have a strong personality and support from the people. I would meet someone on the street and they will just pray for me. I feel that with my come back, God has saved my career and I am grateful,” continued Tau.

Tau becomes emotional when he looks back to the past couple of months; “There is a lot that has happened and I learnt a lot during that period. I remained positive. People wanted me back and they kept me going during the trying times.

“I would like to thank the Head Coach, Stuart Baxter and the members of the Technical Team for their encouragement and the Medical Team for their patience. It was not easy but I am glad that I am back now.

Tau made his comeback against Swallows in the Reserve League playing 75 minutes against Moroka Swallows in the heart of midfield. It was against SuperSport United early this week where he showed glimpses of brilliance playing in his favourite position, the right back. The fans cheered him whether he was putting the ball in between Franklin Cale’s legs or making his runs along the touchline.

“I believe in my ability and at no stage did I have a thought of not being able to make a come back. It feels good to be back and my short term goal is to contribute to the success of the team. The team has been doing well this season and we just have to keep going.

The Kimberly born defender in his 8th season as a Glamour Boy is aware that he will not walk straight into the starting eleven; “The acquisition of top players in the team has lifted the level of competition for places. The team is now strong both on paper and on the pitch and one can see the level of intensity at training.

Tau gave a glowing tribute to Coach Stuart Baxter for bringing a different approach; “He has brought a different mindset and different work ethic to the team. He is one of the reasons the team has been doing so well this season."

"We need to continue working together, unite behind the Kaizer Chiefs badge because there is a lot to be done before we can cross the finishing line,” added Tau.