International break a hindrance ahead of Kaizer Chiefs test, says Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt

Breaks for international matches usually last just two weeks but this lay-off was a full three weeks long as FIFA combined the September and October international windows into one period.

The last round of Betway Premiership matches took place on September 20.

Hunt most recently guided his team to a 1-0 win over Kruger United as Amakhosi were held to a goalless draw with Golden Arrows.

Speaking ahead of facing his former team, a disgruntled Hunt explained that preparation for this match have been less than ideal.

He told the club's website: "It's been a longer FIFA break than normal. So I think everyone is ready to play and ready to go, but it was a bit of a hindrance.

"I think the whole world will feel that way because three weeks is a long time. It's very difficult to keep training for that amount of time and to stay motivated.

"Unfortunately, we weren't really able to make the most of it either because we have so many players out – and that's not to make excuses – but it's been tough with so many [players] out injured."

"The most important thing for us is to get a team out there that is fit to play," added Hunt, who must make do without Mosa Lebusa, Surprise Nhlabathi and Orlando Mbembe for Tuesday's clash.

"Our injury list is huge, and that detracts a little bit, but we will be competitive, and that's the most important thing.

“It's always a game that people are excited to play in. We're looking forward to it and hoping there will be a nice crowd, which I am sure there will be. It's another away game; it's now six out of eight for us so far, but we have to face it, confront it and get the best possible team out there from what we have available.”