Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane says he hopes to have Mogakolodi Ngele available for the match against Free State Stars on Sunday at James Motlatsi Stadium in Orkney.

With this year's CAF Champions League about to get under way, Mosimane is hoping to have an even bigger pool to ensure they challenge for honours on all fronts - the Absa Premiership, Nedbank Cup, which they aim to defend, and the Champions League.

Lebohang Mokoena and Tiyani Mabunda made rare appearances in the 3-0 win against Chippa United in midweek and Mosimane is hoping Ngele can shake off a hamstring injury to make the trip to North West.

"I was humbled by the way Cheeseboy [Mokoena] played against Chippa. He really showed he wants to play.

"We also got Mzi Mashaba back and hopefully we can get Mogakolodi back on Sunday against Free State Stars. We have to refresh the team," Mosimane said.

Ngele last featured for Sundowns in the goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs on January 9 at FNB Stadium, when he came on as a second-half substitute.

The Brazilians' clash against Ea Lla Koto will be followed up by one against Orlando Pirates on Wednesday.

After that Sundowns will switch focus to the Champions League.

They take on Zimbabwean side Chicken Inn in the preliminary round of Africa's premium competition next weekend.

They will not be playing in Bulawayo's fabled Barbourfields Stadium but at the smaller Luveve Stadium.

Luveve has a capacity of 10000 and reports say the pitch conditions are better than at Barbourfields.

Sundowns are to fly to Bulawayo next Friday and return on Sunday, limiting their time in Zimbabwe for the first-leg tie, which kicks off at 3pm. - additional reporting by Mark Gleeson