The return of defender Celso Abdul, better known as Mano, to the team and the inclusion of up-and-coming offensive midfielder Kamo-Kamo are the highlights of the Mozambique squad named for the COSAFA Cup.

Mano returns as coach Abel Xavier has to do without veteran talisman Dominguez and the European-based defenders Mexer and Zainadine Jr, who are being rested after a long club season.

Injury has also robbed the team of midfielder Geraldo (Fafe, Portugal) and German-born striker Stanley Ratifo from FC Cologne.

Abel Xavier has favoured a mix of experienced and new players with the intention of building a team that can improve on past performances in the COSAFA Cup and also guarantee the qualification to the next African Cup of Nations finals, which will take place in Cameroon next year.

He has two South African-based players in the side in Edmilson from Cape Town City and diminutive striker Luís Miquissone, who is joining Mamelodi Sundowns for the new season.

Mozambique start their COSAFA Cup campaign against Madagascar in the opening game of tournament in Polokwane on Sunday.

Mozambique squad:

Goalkeepers: Frank (Ferroviário Maputo), Guirrugo (Costa do Sol)

Defenders: Chico (Ferroviário Maputo), Edmilson (Cape Town City, South Africa), Jeitoso (Ferroviário Maputo), Mano (UD Songo), Mexer (Liga Desportiva)

Midfielders: Cremildo (UD Songo), Danilo (Maxaquene), Infren (Liga Desportiva), Kambala (UD Songo), Kamo-Kamo, Lolo (both Ferroviário Maputo), Raúl (Costa do Sol)

Forwards: Dayo (Ferroviaro Beira), Isac (Costa do Sol), Luís Miquissone (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Neymar, Telinho (both Liga Desportiva).