Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has again slammed the Zimbabwe national team technical for failing to properly manage Khama Billiat during last week’s FIFA international break.

The winger returned to his South African club with an aggravated hamstring problem on Thursday after featuring the entire ninety minutes against Botswana and Zambia in the 2021 Afcon Qualifiers.

He was expected to recover on time and play a part in the Telkom Knockout semifinal clash which they lost 2-1 to Maritzburg United on Sunday, but the 29-year old failed a late fitness test on the eve of the match.

According to KickOff.com, the German gaffer has expressed his discontent with how Billiat was managed by the Warriors technical team.

“Of course, it’s upsetting [that Billiat was unavailable]. He definitely went already with a tight hamstring into two national team games, but [there is] nothing we can do,” said Middendorp.

“He played against Botswana and was already playing with pain. He came back despite this and played in Zambia, and it was not possible [to get him ready to face Maritzburg].

“We tried on Saturday afternoon with a late [fitness] test, but it was impossible to bring him in.”

Billiat’s involvement in the Warriors team in September was also criticised by Middendorp who insisted the player was carrying an injury.