Mbesuma, who was on a one-week Christmas break in Luanshya, arrived at Ndola International Airport at 12:30 hours as the South African Airlink plane was about to take off.

The former Roan United striker, who was accompanied by his two friends, immediately went to the South African Airlink offices to reschedule his flight to Wednesday.

Speaking in an interview to Zambia Daily Mail, Mbesuma said he was delayed in Luanshya due to family commitments, adding that he phoned Chiefs' team manager Bobby Motaung to inform him about his failure to travel.

He said he regretted missing his flight and was looking forward to flying out with his wife Libagail and son Morientes tomorrow.

Chiefs started training for the second round of the season on Wednesday.

"I was supposed to fly out today (Tuesday) but due to family commitments I have failed. But I have already talked to Mr Motaung informing him about my situation and he has accepted my apology," Mbesuma said.

The prolific striker has on two occasions delayed going back to South Africa, raising doubts about his discipline.