Kaizer Chiefs news: Healthy competition between Khune and Akpeyi

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has reiterated that there is healthy competition between himself and Itumeleng Khune.

With the former Bafana captain nearing a return to the starting line-up, the Nigerian international might feel that his position as first-choice option for Amakhosi is under threat. 

Healthy competition between Kaizer Chiefs keepers

However, according to Akpeyi, it’s not even the case.

“On Khune‚ I don’t think we are having any fight on who is going to be the No 1 or not,” Akpeyi told the media.

“It’s only an opportunity that I’m having‚ having the coach to have confidence in me while Khune is injured.”

Daniel Akpeyi

Pushing one another

Akpeyi recently won the Absa Premiership goalkeeper of the month award after a string of clean sheets in the period between September and October.

This was after taking charge, following Khune’s brief return to the starting team.

The 33-year-old now has five clean sheets in his nine league starts – the most of any keeper.

Khune, on the other hand, has played just 118 minutes of soccer since the season began, playing the full 90 minutes against AmaZulu before picking up a groin injury against Baroka just days after.

Akpeyi said neither of the two shot-stopper were bothered in terms of who starts, and commented on the healthy competition between himself and his South African teammate.

“If Khune is fine and the coach decides on whoever he wants to play‚ we are cool,” Akpeyi explained.

“The good thing is that we have healthy competition in that department and everybody is pushing each other.

“One thing I like about Khune is that he supports you‚ from what I can see. He’s not actually looking at Daniel being No 2‚ or No 1‚ or something.

“It’s about being given the opportunity‚ and we support each other from there.”

Daniel Akpeyi

Khune was said to be back to full fitness ahead of the Telkom Knockout defeat to Maritzburg United, but hasn’t featured for the club in the two matches since the announcement.

He could be back in the running for a spot in the starting XI when Chiefs return to action against Bloemfontein Celtic on Saturday, 7 December.