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Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has responded to questions whether Itumeleng Khune will keep his place in the Amakhosi starting XI after his heroics against Stellenbosch FC.
Khune, 35, started his first game since May 2021 against Stellenbosch last week and saved two penalties in their 4-3 shootout win, leading to questions as to whether he has done enough to keep his place for the league clash against AmaZulu on Saturday.
Zwane, though, didn’t want to commit as to whether Khune will retain his place in the starting XI after Bruce Bvuma started Chiefs’ first three league matches before Brandon Petersen was in goal in the last two DStv Premiership matches.
“If you remember what I said, I said ‘there is always competition for places’ and Khune is one of the players that were put in a special program,”
“He responded positively and he could see how he played against Stellies. So that alone tells you he is more focussed and ready to give his best all the time.
“As one of the seniors he’s been doing very well.”
When Khune was asked whether he had a chat with Zwane on whether he will continue between the sticks, he responded it is not for him put pressure on the coach off the pitch.
“To be quite honest, I haven’t sat down with the coach, but as a 24-hour pro I have to show up at work. I have to give my all at all times,” he told reporters.
“I’m not that kind of player who would go and knock on the coach’s office and ask him questions. What I do on the field, I think, it speaks volumes and for the coaches to see that, they will reward me when it is time for me to be rewarded.
“The whole of last season I only played in the MTN8 and I was lucky enough to voted to play in the [DStv] Compact Cup to show that I can still play until I’m 40+ and what a blessing to be a goalkeeper or having chosen that position because at 35 I’m still going strong.
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“I’ve always referred my situation to Gianluigi Buffon who is still going strong at 44. I’ve also looked at Essam El Hadary, who is also my inspiration and who am I to stop playing before 40?
“I want to continue playing until I no longer want to play. Not because of injuries or being overweight. I think that I can handle myself and I’ve got a great team around me that will always push me.
“I’m thankful and I appreciate everyone’s love and support that I’ve received over the years.”