Thomas Sweswe insists the exit of his ex-Kaizer Chiefs teammate Itumeleng Khune had a detrimental effect on the Soweto giants’ goalkeeping department.
The former defender suggests Amakhosi need a more dependable goalkeeper, saying those available are letting Khune’s legacy down.
After the departure of the legendary Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, the club added Rwanda shot-stopper Fiacre Ntwari to its roster.
Ntwari was signed from TS Galaxy as Khune’s replacement. That was after Khune was let go following the expiry of his contract.
Khune was offered a non-playing role. Â However, he was not keen on taking up the role, as he stated that he still wanted to play.
And his replacement, Ntwari, joined Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Petersen. Bvuma served as the second choice, while Petersen was the third choice during Khune’s time. Additionally, Bontle Molefe is also part of the goalkeeping department.
In the Chiefs’ goalkeeping department, Bvuma has played the highest number of games this season. He has played 12 Betway Premiership games.
Ntwari has played five times, while Petersen has been thrown into the fray three times. In all league matches, the team has conceded 24 goals in 20 matches.
In addition, they have managed to score 22 goals. The Soweto giants are struggling to keep clean sheets, with only four of them to show off.
WHAT FORMER KAIZER CHIEFS DEFENDER THOMAS SWESWE SAID
In an interview with FARPost, Sweswe said the current three custodians needed to have Khune by their side to push them.
“They [club management] needed to retain him. I think his departure really affected the team’s goalkeeping department. Khune would have been there to push them,” Sweswe told FARPost.
“Because a successful defense line needs a dependable goalkeeper. I worked with him, hence I know what he would have offered despite the age. There is a need for someone who has a serious command and a relationship with the defenders.
“That is what Khune was, and I believe his presence could have helped because at the moment, I don’t see a dependable goalkeeper in the team. Chiefs was known for having the best goalkeeper in the land, but right now, that legacy is gone.
“Maybe that is an area that still needs attention. But the coach [Nasreddine Nabi] is good. I like his character and the fact that he is straightforward in everything he says.”
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