Suspended Chiefs keeper Khune on inspiration from Messi

He might be suspended by Kaizer Chiefs but keeper Itumeleng Khune says he is inspired by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Khune is suspended by Chiefs for misbehaviour but he says he is inspired by Messi and Ronaldo’s resilience and hunger.

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As also published by The South African, Khune allegedly came to training under the influence of alcohol and he was also stripped of his captaincy by Chiefs.

In a recent interview per TimesLIVE, the former Bafana Bafana number one keeper, Khune, said the relentless pursuit of excellence by Argentina’s Messi and Ronaldo inspires him. 

SUSPENDED CHIEFS KEEPER KHUNE ON INSPIRATION FROM MESSI

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The 2010 FIFA World Cup campaigner with Bafana and Chiefs longest-serving player, Khune says he refers to the story of Messi.

“I refer my story to Lionel Messi who has won seven Ballon d’Or’s and he is still hungry for more,” Khune says to TimesLIVE.

“I refer my story to Cristiano Ronaldo who has won five Ballon d’Or and he is still hungry for more by breaking records in every league he plays in. 

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“You can never have enough as a footballer. I have won four Goalkeeper of the Season awards but I still feel I can win more.

“Obviously, age is not on my side anymore but I feel, with experience, I can achieve it.” 

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While he remains suspended by the Naturena-based Chiefs, Khune remains one of the most loved players in Mzansi.

He says he is grateful to the fans who voted for him to be in the Carling Knockout Cup All Stars and that he is happy.

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“I am grateful for the love and support I still get from South African soccer-loving fans,” adds Khune.

“I am happy that they voted for me; they could have voted for another goalkeeper because we have a lot of talent in the country.

“I am grateful they chose me to represent them and I will make sure I perform at my best so their votes don’t go to waste.

“I am happy with my contribution to South African football. I am grateful I was able to touch hearts of soccer-loving fans.  

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“That’s why whenever platforms like this come around, they feel they have to honour Itu at all costs by giving him the most votes because they still want to see more of me. 

“I cannot afford to fail them. I have to make sure I give my all every time I get the opportunity and I love and appreciate every one of them.” 

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