Kaizer Chiefs Boss Explains Khune’s New Role
- Kaizer Chiefs Boss Explains Veteran Keeper Itumeleng Khune New Role.
After handing veteran keeper Itumeleng Khune his final contract as a footballer, Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. explains the gloveman’s new role at Chiefs.
Motaung Jr. explained the decision to keep Khune as a player for the upcoming DStv Premiership season is simply because of his love for the game.
Khune’s new contract was announced on Friday as he will play under new coach Molefi Ntseki and the Amakhosi boss, Motaung Jr. has shared his thoughts.
Khune’s future was a subject of speculation in the South African media space and it was mentioned that he would be released as negotiations dragged on for several months.
CHIEFS EXPLAINS KHUNE’S NEW ONE-YEAR DEAL
Motaung Jr. explained that as Khune becomes the longest-serving member of Chiefs, the veteran gloveman has shown dedication and commitment.
While he is expected to challenge for his place in the starting eleven under Ntseki and his technical bench, Khune will transition into an administration and coaching role.
“It speaks to his love for the game, dedication, hard work, and commitment because very few achieve this feat,” said Motaung Jr.
“We hope that he gives it his all in this final season and shares his valuable experience with the younger players in the team.
“It is remarkable that Itu, at the age of 36, has been with Chiefs for over 20 years.”
Khune is expected to use the upcoming season to broaden his technical acumen and transition into an ambassadorial role working with the marketing division at the club, said Chiefs.
A LOOK AT VETERAN KEEPER KHUNE’S CAREER AT CHIEFS
The former Bafana Bafana skipper, Khune will enter his 20th season as a first-team member of the Chiefs’ squad, thus setting a new club record, after being promoted to the senior side in the 2004/05 campaign.
Born in North West, Khune made his debut in Chiefs’ colours back in August 2007 when they faced off against Jomo Cosmos, at the age of 20, and has racked up 423 appearances since then.
He will be expected to also play a pivotal role in guiding the likes of Bruce Bvuma, Bontle Molefe, and Brandon Petersen.
At the same time, he will also learn a lot from legendary goalkeeper coach Rainer Dinkelacker who has made his return to Naturena.
Chiefs released a statement this week indicating that the German mentor will work as a Strategic Advisor in the Amakhosi goalkeeping department.
