How Khune became the Kaizer Chiefs’ greatest player

From a historical perspective, the PSL era’s Kaizer Chiefs have been fortunate in the goalkeeping department. As demonstrated by players like Brian Baloyi and Rowan Fernandez, who rose to fame while playing for the Soweto giants.

But Itumeleng Khune is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers to have worn the renowned Chiefs uniform, if not the best.

Check out how “Itu” became the Glamour Boys’ “Greatest Of All Time” here.

Repeated Winner

With three PSL league wins and seven cup trophies under his belt, Khune was a key player in some of Chiefs’ most successful PSL playoff runs. Khune continued to be one of the most decorated players in the Amakhosi squad despite the club going through discouraging dry spells in recent years.

Durability and Loyalty

In 2007, Khune made a huge impression on the South African football landscape when, at the age of 20, he was given his debut by Muhsin Ertugral in a 1-1 draw against Jomo Cosmos at Kings Park Stadium. Now, 347 games and 153 clean sheets later, Khune is still revered by the club’s devoted fans. Khune came dangerously close to signing Mamelodi Sundowns in 2015, a move that is now practically forgotten in South African football history. Itu declined a new contract with the team during the 2014–15 campaign, making him a free agent. It was rumored that Itu was interested in a lucrative deal at Chloorkop.

Khune, however, pledged his long-term future with his boyhood club and returned to Naturena with a cap in hand.

Distribution of Trademarks

Khune, who considers himself to be “distribution 101,” has distinguished himself during his career from some of the top PSL goalkeepers with his ability to kick the ball. Khune will always be regarded as one of the greatest ball-playing goalkeepers of his generation, whether the ball is in his hands or speeding past him.