Chiefs Fans Call For Akpeyi’s Return Over Khune

The Nigerian goalkeeper has been much maligned in South Africa, but his absence has been sorely missed

Kaizer Chiefs fans have called on new head coach Gavin Hunt to reinstate Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi quickly has the club’s number one shot-stopper.

Hunt was recently appointed as Chiefs boss to replace Ernst Middendorp, who guided the Amakhosi to a runners-up finish last season.

And the former SuperSport United boss wasted no time backing veteran goalie Itumelang Khune for the number one gloves.

Khune had been the Glamour Boys’ undisputed first-choice for several years, but the 33-year-old’s battles with injuries and Akpeyi’s excellent form saw the Nigerian international emerge as the club’s numero uno last season.

But with Hunt’s support and Akpeyi’s absence, due to work permit issues, Khune has kept goal for both of Kaizer Chiefs two games so far this term. 

The South African international was in goal for the DSTV Premier League opener against champions, Mamelodi Sundowns and MTN 8, conceding four goals.

But the manner of the Amakhosi’s 3-0 home defeat to their bitter rivals on Saturday infuriated the club’s supporters who have responded by calling for the return of Akpeyi.

Akpeyi, 34, joined Chiefs from Chippa United in January 2019 and has featured 31 times in the league for the club.