Building up to the blockbuster Soweto Derby, Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson has outlined a special mandate for veteran shot-stopper Itumeleng Khune upon his return from a brief suspension.
Khune’s return comes at a crucial time for the Amakhosi, just days before they clash against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the DStv Premiership on Saturday afternoon [15:00] at FNB Stadium.
With 28 appearances in the Soweto Derby under his belt, Khune brings a wealth of experience handling the pressure and demands of this high-stakes match.
Johnson expects the former Bafana Bafana No. 1 to play a vital role in Chiefs’ quest for victory, regardless of whether he starts or takes on a supporting role within the team. The Chiefs coach believes the goalie’s leadership qualities and extensive derby experience make him a valuable asset, both on and off the field.
Khune, who was suspended and stripped of the captaincy in December 2023, rejoined the squad on Wednesday following the completion of a “corrective programme designed for him to meet set expectations for a professional athlete”.
The 36-year-old was away from the club for three months following allegations that he arrived to training at Naturena under the influence of alcohol. After his successful programme completion, Khune stated that he feels confident about his personal and professional growth.
Johnson expressed his delight at Khune’s return, highlighting the Chiefs legend’s potential to positively impact the younger players’ mental preparation for the upcoming Soweto Derby.
CHIEFS COACH SHARES EXPECTATIONS FOR KHUNE’S RETURN FOR SOWETO DERBY
“Itu has come back, and we welcomed him back, and for sure, he has a lot to do as far as holding the changing room together at this particular moment because of the derby,” said Cavin Johnson.
“He has more than 20 games [Soweto Derby] under his belt, so he brings that little bit of extra energy and also brings calmness with his experience into the dressing room and players’ group to ensure that they are mentally prepared.
“Physically, we know the players should be ready. Tactically, we are going to do the best we can. Technically, they don’t play for Kaizer Chiefs and not be technically good. So yes, we are ready.
“But it is a mental game; we haven’t played in front of 90 000 fans for a long time; we don’t have that often, 90 000 fans in Gold and Black, Black and White together, it is a different scenario.
“As far as Itu is concerned, we expect him to give the younger players a lot of mental strength.”
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