NEWS: Itumeleng Khune rejoins Kaizer Chiefs squad

Khune was banned from first-team duties after allegedly arriving to training under the influence of alcohol.

The 36-year-old was suspended for a three-month period that included a mandatory corrective programme to ensure that he aligns himself with the club’s values.

“Khune was suspended early in December to afford him an opportunity to complete a corrective programme designed for him to meet set expectations for a professional athlete,” a Kaizer Chiefs statement said.

“Upon completion of the programme, a report from an independent body of professionals was received and shared with the technical team to demonstrate that he had done all that was required.

“During his three-month absence, Khune says he fully participated in the programmes set out for him and believes they assisted with his personal growth and development as a professional athlete as well as an individual.

“He looks forward to working hard at training and sharing his knowledge with his teammates.

“In January and February, Kaizer Chiefs also allowed Khune to participate on the panel of SABC Sport analysts during the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The experience gained from the exercise will hopefully benefit his life in future.

“As Kaizer Chiefs, we welcome Itu back to the home he has known for over 25 years and we remain committed to our core values of discipline, integrity, respect, and unity.”

Meanwhile, Khune said: “I look forward to working hard at training and sharing my knowledge with my teammates.

“I fully participated in the programmes and believe they’ve assisted me with my personal growth and development as a professional and as an individual.”