GEORGE Maluleka's return to fitness comes at an opportune time for Kaizer Chiefs, adding considerable depth to the key playmaker position ahead of Amakhosi's match against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday (FNB Stadium, 3.30pm).

Maluleka returned to full training from a month-long groin injury last week, and is available for the playmaker position that Siphiwe Tshabalala has filled with accomplishment in recent matches.

Amakhosi coach Stuart Baxter believes Bernard Parker, who had been off song since also returning from injury, is showing signs of finding his touch to add another option at playmaker.

"It's a good one for us, Mido [Maluleka] coming back," Baxter said. "Playing our best football at the beginning of the season, he was instrumental.

"Also I've got Parker getting into good shape. And Shabba [Tshabalala], who's gone into that position, has been our best player in some games."

A concern for Baxter is he has five players in the Bafana squad who only return tomorrow morning from a gruelling trip to Nigeria.

Goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo, defenders Mulomowandau Mathoho and Tefu Mashamaite, Letsholonyane and right wing Mandla Masango are in the SA squad.

"The national players come back from Nigeria, landing 36 hours before we play on Saturday. Sundowns have one player [Themba Zwane] in the squad, and we have five. And I have to think seriously if I'll field all of them."