Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune might still harbour the ambition to return to the Bafana Bafana setup but his chances are non-existent.
Speaking to the media after his return to the Chiefs starting line-up, Khune revealed he wants to go back to Bafana Bafana whom he won 91 caps with.
However, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos appears to have closed that door completely, saying Khune’s age (35) is a factor in this instance.
According to Broos, Bafana Bafana cannot be building for the future while they rely on players who are in the twilight of their careers.
Broos admitted that Khune is a good goalkeeper, and has seen him in action for Chiefs in recent matches, but he said the shot-stopper will be 37 if Bafana Bafana qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024.And for Broos, it would be a waste to select Khune in any of his Bafana Bafana squad, and thus, ending the goalkeeper’s dream of returning to the international stage.
Furthermore, while Broos admitted that Khune is a quality goalkeeper, he did say not for him as a current Bafana Bafana coach.
NO BAFANA BAFANA RETURN FOR KAIZER CHIEFS ‘KEEPER KHUNE
“I’ve known Khune from a long time ago when I was still the Cameroon coach, and he was the Bafana goalkeeper,” said Broos.
“He is a very good goalkeeper but then again, I’m very sorry to say this, but as you know my philosophy, he is 35 years old.
“I’ve watched most Kaizer Chiefs games when he was playing. I cannot say he’s a bad goalkeeper now but is he the future?” asked Broos.
“If South Africa qualifies for the Afcon, he will be 37. I’m sorry, I don’t dismiss his qualities. He is a quality goalkeeper but not for me.
“How can you prepare for the future with someone who is 37?” Broos asked again.
Bafana Bafana take on Sierra Leone and Botswana in international friendly matches on Saturday and Tuesday respectively.
Both matches will be played at FNB Stadium.