Da Gama defends his Khune pick
SA U23 coach Owen da Gama has shrugged off criticism regarding the selection of Itumeleng Khune for the squad heading to the Olympic Games which start next month.
Kaizer Chiefs duo Khune and Eric Mathoho were brought into the squad as overage players and there has been criticism that Khune’s selection was unnecessary considering Jody February’s heroics at the CAF U23 championships in November that led to qualification.
Da Gama, however, has called for calm and insisted that Khune – or anyone for that matter – is not guaranteed a starting berth.
“The criticism is from people who have already selected [the lineup]. The line-up has not been selected and who says Jody won’t start against Brazil. Jody started against Wits [in a practice match], so there are no guarantees,” Da Gama said.
“Allow us to go through the process and select the best possible team on the day,” he said.
The former Orlando Pirates coach has picked eight utility players in his 18-man squad including the likes of Abbubaker Mobara, Tyroane Sandows and Gift Motupa. Da Gama believes this will aid the team, considering that 18 players aren’t enough for a major tournament when factors such as injuries or suspensions come into play.
“We’ve got eight players who can play more than two positions, so it is quite satisfying so far. When you have 18 players you need a lot of versatility,” he said.