Kaizer Chiefs’ marketing and commercial director Jessica Motaung has addressed the recent suspension of club legend Itumeleng Khune, explaining in detail the club’s reasons behind the disciplinary action.
The Soweto giants announced on Thursday that Khune has been temporarily suspended and stripped of the club’s captaincy after alleged disciplinary transgressions.
This move comes amidst Amakhosi’s disciplinary processes, which also require Khune to seek professional assistance for his reported issues with alcohol. While the PSL giants haven’t officially divulged the specific details surrounding Khune’s actions, they have confirmed that thorough internal investigations were undertaken.
This comes after FARPost broke a story that the former Bafana Bafana star arrived at the club’s training base in Naturena under the influence of alcohol. This incident sparked a series of investigations and internal discussions, ultimately culminating in the club suspending Khune.
Jessica Motaung has since offered insights into the club’s rationale and motivations behind the decision.
Motaung on Khune’s suspension
“The statement was very important,” she said. “Very important in setting the tone for not just the young ones but also the other players within the team to say that we’re a team of integrity, of high standards and also of unity and making sure that if one doesn’t do things right, we address it.
“But also saying as much as there’s discipline, we also want to make sure we assist our players, we empower our players. So I trust that our players take it [bad behaviour] very seriously.”
She also offered a supportive voice to Khune, insisting that the club is committed to backing him through his journey towards recovery.
And while acknowledging Khune’s misstep, Jessica described it as a “mistake” and expressed her unwavering faith in his ability to overcome the current difficulties.
‘KHUNE IS LIKE A YOUNG BROTHER TO ME’ – JESSICA
“Khune has been a part of this club for many years,” she added. “I’ve seen him grow he’s like a young brother but also has contributed immensely to Chiefs, and has been a captain for many years.
“He has contributed to the national team and it’s very important that even when someone makes a mistake you find time and the opportunity to sit down and address those issues.
“While there is discipline you also find a way to help someone deal with things and that is very important in this process. We’ve talked extensively and I even saw him this morning it’s a tough journey but I see a young man who’s willing to do the work and we’re here with him.
“But certainly the message is that we also need to be disciplined, we need to do the work properly and we need to understand that we’re part of the team accountability and leadership must be done.”
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