Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo has shared his thoughts on his ex-teammate Itumeleng Khune’s final season in Amakhosi colours.
Khuzwayo and Khune, who once donned the same jersey at Chiefs, were more than just teammates as they shared a camaraderie relationship that extended beyond the pitch.
Khune started his career in the developmental ranks of the Soweto giants. He spent five years in the development before being promoted to the senior team during the 2004/05 season. He was then given a chance to prove his worth in the 2007/2008 season.
Meanwhile, Khuzwayo joined Amakhosi at the end of the 2011/2012 season from AmaZulu FC. He made an overall of 34 appearances across all competitions.
Khuzwayo also featured for Bafana Bafana and registered four caps. He won four titles with Amakhosi, two of which were the DStv Premiership titles.
KHUZWAYO’S REFLECTION ON KHUNE’S LAST SEASON
As the curtain goes down on Itumeleng Khune’s illustrious career at Kaizer Chiefs, Khuzwayo took a moment to share his heartfelt reflections on the iconic goalkeeper’s last season.
“For me, I would still say, does the team, in terms of their five-year plan, see themselves having Khune being part of them?” asked Khuzwayo in an interview with FARPost. “I don’t think they do see that.
“I think it’s a wise move from the team that ‘if we need someone who would last us for the next 5 years’, Is it Itumeleng? You need to find someone who will replace him.
“Have they replaced him? I doubt they have replaced him. It’s difficult for Kaizer Chiefs in the goalkeeping department,” added Brilliant Khuzwayo.
Khune registered 423 appearances at Amakhosi in 19 seasons across all competitions. To add, having signed another one-year contract at Chiefs, this will see Khune spend his 20th season at the club.
The 36-year-old shot-stopper has won 13 major trophies with Amakhosi, including three league titles, making him the most decorated player in the current squad. He also won 17 major individual awards in the past 15 years with the club.
Khune also represented Bafana Bafana on a number of occasions. His scintillating performance dazzled in the international football.
He registered his first cap in 2008 at AFCON and also represented Bafana Bafana in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Overall, he made 91 caps.
Story by Mashale Mpho Mabotja.
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