Kaizer Chiefs forward Khama Billiat has admitted that he needed a rest and trusted Ernst Middendorp’s decision to use him sparingly in recent weeks.

The Zimbabwean hit the ground running after his move from Mamelodi Sundowns at the start of the season, and was undoubtedly the star man under previous coach Giovanni Solinas.

However, Billiat started just two of Chiefs’ last four games, missing out completely their Nedbank Cup opener against Tornado FC, and he played just 17 minutes in their 3-2 victory over AmaZulu a three weeks ago.

The forward though, has admitted that he needed the rest after a number of seasons of non-stop football.

‘I do understand [why I’ve not played every game] – the technical team talks to us, and I fully understand that I needed some rest,’ Billiat said at the PSL offices on Thursday in the buildup to the Soweto derby.

‘I’ve played so many games [in recent seasons], without having an off-season as others did. So, they looked at the schedule and they’re just trying to manage the energy levels to keep me as fresh as possible, and I do understand, because I also feel good again.

‘When I get a chance [to play again], I feel a difference in my body – I have so much energy and stuff like that, so I trust them, and it’s actually working in my favour.’

The 28-year-old will be hoping that his renewed energy can help inspire Chiefs to victory over Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.