PIRATES’ NEW GOALIE HOPES TO DETHRONE KHUNE

than me so I will gain a lot of experience from them. I’m here to learn, I’m here for a new chapter in my life and I’m ready for it.” Khuzwayo made just 34 appearances in his six seasons at Naturena, most when Khune was injured, a total that is far too few for a player of his quality. “I’ve got immense self-confidence, and the only way to show that is going onto the field and playing more,” he says. “For me to get an opportunity, I really need to work hard. No one has died of hard work. I believe in working hard and that’s what I’ll do to get a chance to play.

“You’ve got to have an ego as a player. There’s an iPhone and a Samsung. If people don’t like the iPhone, they choose a Samsung. Let’s see how the season is going to be and let’s see who is going to be number one at Bafana Bafana.”

The Umlazi-born star is a product of the Pirates academy, but never made a first team appearance for the club.

He instead went home to KwaZulu-Natal, where he played for lower league side Durban Warriors before joining AmaZulu for the 2010-11 season.

Khuzwayo also battled to win a place with Usuthu, making just four appearances in his first season before being sent out on loan to National First Division side Thanda Royal Zulu.

He had a good campaign, helping Thanda into the Promotion-Relegation Play-Offs, before becoming a surprise signing by Chiefs in July 2012.

On the occasions he was called upon to play in Khune’s absence, Khuzwayo proved a consistent and quality performer and will now get the chance to show that over a full season in the colours of Pirates.