Zwane names two groups benefiting from Khune’s presence at Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has named two groups benefiting from Itumeleng Khune’s presence at the club.

The 35-year-old goalkeeper is one of the longest-serving players at Chiefs, having been at the club since 12. 

However, in recent seasons, he has found the going tough with limited playing time. 

Due to injuries and a subsequent loss of form, the former Bafana Bafana number one had lost his place at Chiefs.

As if to show that he still has it, the Ventersdop-born player saved two penalties on Saturday, sending his boyhood club to the MTN8 semi-final.

Just four days after his heroic performance, Zwane has singled out two groups of players profiting from Khune’s experience.

Massive boost 

“It’s a big boost especially for the young ones and the players who are new to the set-up, having Khune around them,” Zwane told the media on Thursday.

Among some of the youngsters in Zwane’s squad are Mduduzi Shabalala [18], Sabelo Radebe [22], Sibusiso Milazi [21] and Aiden McCarthy [18]. 

The former Chiefs winger is convinced the upcoming stars have a lot to learn from the club’s veteran.

Boosting his confidence

Zwane further revealed that Khune was “one of the players who was put on a special programme to work on him and boost his confidence.”

“[We had to] make sure he is ready to come and compete because there’s competition for places [at Kaizer Chiefs].”

He stressed that everyone had to fight to get into the team regardless of their status.

“There is no one who will walk into the team. He was given the opportunity because he has been working very hard and preparing himself.

“He did very well, and we’re happy about that. We know he will help the rest of the team in terms of leadership.”