By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kaizer Chiefs’ goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, will be available for selection for Saturday’s derby against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium.
In December 2023, Chiefs announced the 36-year-old, who was subsequently removed from all team activities due to discipline-related issues.
The club announced on Wednesday that Khune had rejoined the team after a three-month suspension.
“Khune was suspended early in December to afford him an opportunity to complete a corrective programme designed for him to meet set expectations for a professional athlete. Upon completion of the programme, a report from an independent body of professionals was received and shared with the technical team to demonstrate that he had done all that was required,” Chiefs’ statement read.
“In January and February, Kaizer Chiefs also allowed Khune to participate on the panel of SABC Sport analysts during the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The experience gained from the exercise will hopefully benefit his life in future. As Kaizer Chiefs, we welcome Its back to the home he has known for over 25 years and we remain committed to our core values of discipline, integrity, respect and unity,” the statement concluded.
Khune’s misconduct occurred just as he had regained the number one jersey at the club and as he nears the end of his professional career.
The 36-year-old has played in 28 derbies and been involved in countless of them as a part of the Chiefs set-up since his promotion to the first team in 20 years ago.