During the build-up to the Soweto Derby last week, Kaizer Chiefs veteran goalkeeper and club captain Itumeleng Khune came out with a surprising statement regarding his future at Naturena.
In contradiction to a press release from the club in June that Khune had been handed a one-year deal and would play his final season at the Naturena-based side, the experienced keeper told journalists his body could still carry him longer.
"If (Gigi) Buffon could do it until 45 and (Essam) El-Hadary could do it until 44, who am I, at the age of 36, to entertain the fact that someone has an idea that Itu must retire? It's well respected (statement from the club), but I am playing for a new contract – my body can still carry me until I am 40+," he said, in part.
The Siya crew has since done some digging and it's emerged there's not been any discussions around reversing the original statement.
But what has led to Khune feeling confident he can come out publicly and raise his hand for the No.1 jersey at Naturena is concerns from fans whether he can be replaced in the long-term. Soccer Laduma published a story recently on information from inside Chiefs that Brandon Petersen continues to receive internal support at the club despite big costly errors, that have now seemingly led to him being dropped.
It then gave the former Bafana Bafana number one the chance to reclaim the jersey with Cavin Johnson as the interim coach in the three matches before the FIFA break, including the Soweto Derby defeat against Orlando Pirates.
Khune's remarks are understood to have now given the impression he will not be pushed into hanging his glove early, especially if the player himself feels Amakhosi have not identified his successor.
Should Khune stay at Chiefs for another year? Share your views in the comments section below!
