Football Manager, Bobby Motaung paid a glowing tribute to goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune who will be playing his 100th game on Wednesday evening when Kaizer Chiefs welcomes Moroka Swallows at Loftus Stadium.

“Spider Kid”, as Khune is affectionately known, made his debut for the Glamour Boys against Jomo Cosmos back in August 2007. He has grown to become one of the established stars not only at Kaizer Chiefs but at Bafana Bafana where he was no. 1 goalkeeper during Confederations Cup 2009 and the World Cup 2010.

Speaking to kaizerchiefs.comMotaung revealed that Khune has always been ambitious since his days at the Development.

“One of the most outstanding things about Khune has always been his passion for the game,” said Motaung who has watched the Ventersdorp youngster grow since being promoted from the development structures.

“He was always focused and very ambitious. He was also brave and never shied away from competition despite being up against established goalkeepers like Emille Baron and Rowen Fernandez.

When he finally got his opportunity he grabbed it with both hands and has been a pillar of strength for the team since then.”

“Khune is a model professional and an example to youngsters who want to play football at the highest level. He remains passionate about football, very focused and works hard at training every day,” he said adding that when Khune arrived at the Development he was a striker.

Motaung also paid tribute to his family who nurtured Khune.

“His parents played a huge role as well and they deserve the credit.

On behalf of the Club, we are happy with the contribution we have made to his growth.”

“I cannot forget his Coaches both at the development and senior team for nurturing his talent. He continues to grow and he is proof that when you are disciplined, dedicated and passionate about your job then you can go places,”

Khune is often being compared to his idol Brain Baloyi, and Motaung says the comparison is not off the mark; “Brian, like Khune, grabbed his opportunity and went on to become one of the longest serving goalkeepers in the Club.

Brian is still in the game because of the passion he has for his job. You can see that this has rubbed off onto Khune who also has taken his profession as serious as Brian has over the years.”

“On behalf of the Club I would like to wish him all the best and that he reaches a legendary status at the Club” added Motaung.

In 2010 as the Club celebrated its 40th anniversary, Itumeleng Khune was voted by Amakhosi Magazine readers to an impressive 3rd place behind legends, Ace Ntsolengoe and Doctor Khumalo in the 40 Greatest Players ever to don the Gold and Black jersey.

He has also won various awards in his career including Kaizer Chiefs Player of the Year 2007/2008 season and also walked away with Premier Soccer League Goalkeeper of the Year Award back in 2007/2009 season.