What Galaxy goalkeeper Buthelezi wants to achieve at Bafana

TS Galaxy goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi says he wants to continue where the late Senzo Meyiwa and Brilliant Khuzwayo left off in the Bafana Bafana set-up, after receiving his first-ever call-up.

The KwaZulu-Natal-born goalminder became the third keeper from the province to receive a senior national call-up in over a decade.

The late Meyiwa and Khuzwayo might have earned only a handful of caps under their belt, but during that short space, they left good records in the national teams.

Buthelezi’s call-up comes after a great start of the season and there were expectations for him to be included in the squad.

BUTHELEZI REACTS TO FIRST BAFANA CALL-UP

Reacting to the big achievement, the 24-year-old keeper dedicated the expected call-up to the team for supporting him.

He promised to do what other KZN goalkeepers have done in the Bafana Bafana set-up.

“I feel so happy to be amongst the players that will represent my country in this FIFA break,” Buthelezi told the media.

“I would like to thank the coaches and teammates for supporting me, especially the chairman [Tim Sukazi].

“The goal is to continue where the likes of Brilliant Khuzwayo and Senzo Meyiwa left off; they did well as KZN keepers in the national team, I must make sure I keep that. If the opportunity is given,” he added.

Buthelezi when you do well, great things will follow you and want to build on this and record more clean sheets.

“I was expecting the call-up, but if it did not happen, I was not going to be disappointed,” he declared.

“According to my performance, I was doing well.

“I always said if I do well, wonderful things will always come my way; everything that is happening will give me the confidence to grow as a player.

“Every player does have targets, it’s my first season and would like to get above ten clean sheets, which would make me happy,” Buthelezi concluded.

Buthelezi will now have to fight with Ronwen Williams and Veli Mothwa for the Bafana number one spot.