Itumeleng Khune: Cavin Johnson Breaks Silence on Veteran Goalkeeper's Comeback After Suspension

Itumeleng Khune: Cavin Johnson Breaks Silence on Veteran Goalkeeper's Comeback After Suspension

Robert Abong'o
May 13, 2024 at 3:01 PM
In this article:
Itumeleng Khune logo
I. Khune
Kaizer Chiefs logoGSouth Africa logo
Kaizer Chiefs logo
Kaizer Chiefs
South Africa
24
South Africa Premier Soccer League logo
ZA Premier League
South Africa
  • Itumeleng Khune returns to the Kaizer Chiefs bench after a three-month absence
  • Caretaker coach Cavin Johnson stressed Bruce Bvuma remains the club's number one
  • The veteran's future is uncertain, with rumours of a potential coaching role at the club

PAY ATTENTION: Checkout Fixtures; Live Scores; Results and Tables section on Sports Brief and never miss out on the action ⚽️

Kaizer Chiefs caretaker coach, Cavin Johnson, has shed light on the surprise return of veteran goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune to the bench.

The veteran returned to the Chiefs matchday squad for the first time since November, following a tumultuous few months that saw him serve a club suspension for allegedly arriving at training under the influence of alcohol.

Despite the setbacks, he has been a stalwart for Amakhosi, racking up 12 trophies, including three league titles, since his debut in the 2007/08 season.

Kaizer Chiefs veteran goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, during an Open Media Open Day at Naturena on May 22, 2013 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Photo: Duif du Toit.
Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, returned to the squad following a lengthy suspension. Photo: Duif du Toit.
Source: Getty Images

Johnson cited Brandon Petersen's red card as the catalyst for the 36-year-old's comeback and was quick to stress that Bruce Bvuma remained the club's top choice between the sticks.

He, however, praised Khune's positive attitude in the dressing room.

“Itu has always given us positives in the dressing room. He is back on the bench now because Brandon got a red, so it was touch and go for him whether he was going to make it. The gods of football gave him an opportunity to come on the bench in the last two games while Brandon was out, but they have to fight again to see who is the second. At the moment, Bruce is the number one," said Johnson, as quoted by iDiski Times.

With his contract nearing its end, the former Bafana goalkeeper faces a critical decision about his future. While rumours swirl about a potential coaching role, Khune has made it clear that he's not ready to hang up his boots just yet, aiming to play until he's 40.

As reported by Soccer Laduma, the management wished to reward him for the overwhelmingly positive memories he has provided the club.

Cavin Johnson reiterates transfer policy

Sports Brief recently reported on Johnson's insistence that Kaizer Chiefs did not need the January window.

The Amakhosi brought in 10 new players in July, and the interim coach said he had enough quality to work with.

They resumed their season with a goalless draw against Royal AM, immediately prompting calls for a goalscorer.

Authors
Robert Abong'o photo
Robert Abong'o
Editor - Africa Team
Tags
South Africa