The 36-year-old was sidelined in September after just making his way back to full fitness following an extended spell on the sidelines.

Despite returning to training ahead of the Brazilians’ Betway Premiership clash with Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld this weekend, the Bafana international will watch from the sidelines.

Cardoso said on iDiski Times: “You saw him today the training session was open training separated from the group.

“So he is still not integrated in the work of the group. What it means is he’s still not available on the coaching side.”

Cardoso added that he hopes the player is fit to be selected by Bafana for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in December.

“One thing you need to understand Themba Zwane had a knee injury that was followed by a second one so we need to be very careful if we really want to give him conditions to play football this season and help Mamelodi Sundowns and after Bafana Bafana if the coach decides so,” he said.

“If you ask my expectations and my wishes, my wish is that Themba would go.” added the head coach.

“Obviously on behalf of the love and the respect we have for Themba Zwane we cannot wish nothing more than having him on the highest platforms of South African football.”