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Why Itumeleng Khune is yet to play

Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has explained why Itumeleng Khune is yet to play this season, as they look to have good competition in the squad. 

The former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Khune, has been struggling with injuries in recent seasons, which has seen Amakhosi’s number one spot change every season.

Virgil Vries, Daniel Akpeyi, Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Peterson have all taken turns to guard goals for the Soweto giants.

During an interview with Gagasi FM on Friday, the 35-year-old admitted that lack of game time as Chiefs had contributed to him losing a spot in the national team. 

He is aware that to bounce back, he will have to work hard. On the other hand, Zwane believes Khune is doing well to bounce back.

He explained what currently separates him from Peterson and Bvuma. “Itu has been doing well in training like any other goalkeeper. He needed to be at a certain level for him to play.

“Unfortunately, other keepers are ahead of him in terms of match fitness, and he has been working hard on and off the field. 

“He has a personal trainer, which we encourage,” Zwane explained. The coach further says the team wants to create good competition, and it is not about what a player has done before but what can be done now to help the club. 

He also praised all the players for committing themselves to play their roles in making sure it runs smoothly.

“We are all about fair competition. It’s not about what you’ve done in the past. What is important is who can assist now and fit enough for the team.

“It’s all about the readiness for competition. All the players are committed to doing their part,” he said.

Peterson was in goals on Saturday as Chiefs managed a 1-0 win over Richards Bay at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. 


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