Durban – While his club future remains undecided, goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune is concentrating on his efforts with Bafana Bafana as they prepare to take on Gambia in an Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium, in Durban, on Saturday.
Khune learnt his Kaizer Chiefs fate when management announced in a press conference on June 2 that they would not renew his contract after talks between the club and the player had broken down.
Now Khune is gearing up for national duty and appears fully-committed.
“I told myself that as soon as I get to the national team I have to switch off on other matters, and I have been able to do that very well,” said Khune.
“There is nothing bothering me at the moment, I am fully focussed on the national team.”
The 27-year-old was not part of the Bafana squad during the 2015 Afcon qualifiers and also missed the tournament due to injury. He only made his return earlier this year after an absence of just over a year.
Khune still believed he had the ability to be the Bafana number-one shot-stopper.
“I am happy to be back even though I was not getting enough game time at my club but I have shown that I am capable of doing the business.”
Without much prior knowledge of their opponents, Bafana still had work to do on preparing for the Gambian challenge according to Khune.
“I don’t know much about Gambia but by the time we face them we should know what we are dealing with.
“I have heard that they have more than 10 Europe-based players which means it is going to be a tough match for us and a very important one to win so we start on a high.”
All the players – except Oupa Manyisa – were back at full training, including Sphelele Ntshangase, who has joined from the National Under-23 squad, Thuso Phala due to flu and Thulani Hlatshwayo after he struggled with tight thigh muscles.
Manyisa sat out the morning session at People’s Park on Tuesday, next to the Moses Mabhida Stadium, due to tight muscles.
Tokelo Rantie, meanwhile, has still not reported for training but the matter should be clearer later on Tuesday after a meeting of the Bafana technical team.
Representing Bafana always brought a keen sense of responsibility said Khune.
“When you walk in the streets people always remind us of what we have done in the past and what you have to do in the future – the big challenge is how you handle the pressure that comes, so we have to take it one game at a time.
“This Saturday we have to make sure that we apply ourselves and give our best for the country.
“Our culture is winning every game, even in international friendlies we strive to win, we give our all.
“Playing at home means we have the support so it is crucial that we start on a positive note with a convincing win. We know what lies ahead of us. We just need to start well and I believe the team is ready.” - ANA