Former Orlando Pirates player Phumudzo Manenzhe as well as former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Matthew Booth have both claimed that Itumeleng Khune has done enough to regain the No.1 shirt at Kaizer Chiefs.
Khune was the hero in Amakhosi’s 4-3 penalty shootout win over Stellenbosch FC, saving two spot-kicks of the hosts.
His fine performance also earned him the plaudits of Arthur Zwane, who said this was the Khune he wanted to see. However, it remains unclear whether Khune will continue for Chiefs between the sticks or whether Zwane will revert back to Brandon Petersen, who started the last two DStv Premiership games.
Manenzhe and Booth discussed Khune’s chances of retaining his spot, with the latter explaining that Khune has at least put doubts into Zwane’s mind as to whether to continue with him or not.
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“Just a warning because a lot of South African coaches have used cup games to play their second- or perhaps even second-choice goalkeeper,” he said on SuperSport’s Extra Time.
“I’m not saying that that might be the case here, because he’s saved two penalties, he’s been fantastic for me. His distribution was up there. He’s been out of football for almost a year and he has this performance, he’s put doubt in Zwane’s mind.
“Just don’t take it for granted that that will be the case, that he will be the keeper.”
Former Orlando Pirates player, Manenzhe insisted that after Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Petersen had their chance, Khune has done enough to overtake them in the race for a spot in Zwane’s starting XI.
“We’re only in game number six and Kaizer Chiefs have already used three goalkeepers, uncharacteristic for any team to do that,” he added.
“But I believe Bvuma was given an opportunity, I believe Petersen was given an opportunity, now the opportunity is given to Khune and he had a brilliant game, not only saving the penalties but his distribution, his handling. In terms of distribution, he’s second to none in the world.
“I’m saying Arthur Zwane’s No.1 at the moment is Itumeleng Khune.”
Booth responded by saying” “I’d agree with you in that regard. He’s done enough to take that decision, without a doubt.
