Kaizer Chiefs captain Itumeleng Khune has spoken about his new role at the PSL giants, in what will be his final season as a player at the club.
The 36-year-old goalkeeper was promoted to the senior team in the 2004/05 season. The new contract will take his professional career at Chiefs to two decades.
Khune admitted it was a relief to have finally put pen to paper ahead of the new season. This follows a lot of questions about the Bafana Bafana legend’s future at Chiefs.
KHUNE RELIEVED TO HAVE SIGNED A NEW CONTRACT
“Obviously, it’s a great relief for me, getting a new contract, and yes, there are agreements we had to make regarding my future with the club,” he told the media.
“But it’s always pleasing to get a new contract and to continue doing what you love, which is to play football. And I’m grateful for the opportunity the chairman and board of directors have given me.
“My responsibility is to guide the team, guide the guys and obviously help the new ones that are coming in so that they can settle in quicker.”
Khune says the club was frank with him that he wouldn’t play much. According to the club’s website, for the veteran shot-stopper, this season is more about transitioning into a coaching role.
However, Khune says he’s yet to decide what’d like to do in the club’s structure.
KHUNE DISCUSSES NEW ROLE AT CHIEFS
“I think a player of my calibre since I’ve been in the PSL and Kaizer Chiefs all my life. I think it was important that I was sat down, and that’s what the club did,” he added.
“They were honest with me to say, at your age, we will manage you. We won’t be playing you all the matches this season. When we need you, please always be ready. I don’t mind doing that because they gave me the respect I deserve, and I’m happy with my new role.
“As part of the contract, we’ve discussed that at some point, I’ll have to do a transition from playing to playing a different role in the club’s structure.
“So, I’m still yet to decide on what I’m going to be doing. But for now, my full focus is on playing and helping, pushing other goalkeepers to be at their best.”
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