Erick Mathoho returned from injury earlier than expected and will start in tonight’s Absa Premiership against Platinum Stars.

Meanwhile, Edward Manqele comes into the starting line-up to replace Lewis Macha, who has a niggling ankle injury.

Hendrick ‘Pule’ Ekstein returns to the starting line-up after only coming on as a substitute in Kaizer Chiefs’ previous clash in the MTN8 quarterfinal against Cape Town City. The skilful midfielder did start in this season’s opener against Bidvest Wits.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwean winger Edmore Chirambadare will get another chance to impress.

The match between Amakhosi and Platinum Stars will kick-off at 19:30.

Chiefs' line up: Khune, captain (32); Mphahlele (2), Mathoho (3), Gordinho (26), Masilela (24); Twala (7), Katsande (31), Baloyi (35), Chirambadare (11); Ekstein (27), Manqele (22)

Subs: Khuzwayo (16), Cardoso (4), Khumalo (13), Maluleka (12), Parker (25), Lebese (17), Katsvairo (8)

Head Coach: Steve Komphela

Stars: Mzimela (31); Mpete (33), Nhlapo (25), Sithole (5), Mnguni (23); Mabena (10), Mere, captain (2), Mathe (12), Msomi (15), Nga’mbi (22), Botes (9)

Subs: Hoffman (1), Senne (11), De Jongh (18), Gwabeni (30), Kunene (13), Tshabalala (14), Gumede (20)

Head coach: Cavin Johnson

Referee: Victor Hlungwani

1st Assistant: Moses Phale

2nd Assistant: Peter Rabophara

4th Official: Kenny Mamegwa

Match Commissioner: Job D. Smith