Kaizer Chiefs’ first-choice goalkeeper, Bruce Bvuma, has paid tribute to Itumeleng Khune ahead of what could potentially be the veteran shot-stopper’s final home game with Amakhosi.
This tribute comes as Chiefs prepare to take on Polokwane City at FNB Stadium on Saturday. Chiefs announced on Thursday that they will honour Khune ahead of the game against Rise and Shine.
The 36-year-old has dedicated 25 years of service to the club. It is speculated that this may be Khune’s last season at Amakhosi, as the club has already stated that his current playing contract, set to expire in June, will be his last.
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Khune has faced challenges throughout the campaign, being suspended by the club and stripped of the captaincy late last year due to reportedly arriving at training under the influence of alcohol.
However, his suspension was lifted in March, and he made his first appearance in the Chiefs matchday squad in their last match, a 1-1 DStv Premiership draw at AmaZulu.
Bvuma expressed his gratitude towards Khune, acknowledging him as a legend of the team. He emphasized the blessing of having Khune’s presence, whether it be for a game, leisure time, or training.
Bvuma highlighted Khune’s immense contributions to the team and his country, referring to him as a once-in-a-lifetime personality.
He stated, “Itu is a legend of the team, it is always nice to have him with us, whether it is going to a game or chilling or training, for me it is a blessing.
“Guys like Itu only come along once, what he has done for this team and for his country is massive. I am grateful he was there with me when we played in Durban (against AmaZulu).”
Khune is expected to be on the bench for the upcoming match, with Brandon Petersen still serving a suspension. It is unlikely that he will play in either this match or the final match of the season at Cape Town Spurs, as Chiefs are still in pursuit of points to secure a top-eight finish.
Bvuma expressed the impact Khune has had on him, both personally and professionally. He mentioned missing Khune’s personality and the invaluable lessons he received from the veteran goalkeeper.
Bvuma recounted how Khune had supported him during his development, sharing his own experiences and providing assistance when Bvuma faced challenges.
He shared, “I will miss his personality. Itu taught me a lot, coming from development, he told me he had been in my situation before.
“I trained with the first team when I was in Chiefs development, and I didn’t have a contract. Itu helped me, sometimes I didn’t have the money to come to training and Itu was there for me.”
Bvuma also highlighted Khune’s influence on aspiring goalkeepers, emphasizing how Khune’s dedication and success have inspired many to pursue a professional career in goalkeeping.
He acknowledged Khune as a hard worker and emphasized the importance of dedication and continuous improvement, traits that Khune has consistently demonstrated throughout his career.
He added, “Growing up, every goalkeeper looked up to Khune, how he is and who he is. He played a huge role in goalkeepers wanting to make it professionally.
Itu is a hard worker, even now he keeps working hard, if you want to be better than others you need to give more. These are some of the ways he taught me and why he has managed to be where he is today.”
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