Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has revealed he’s been battling with ‘other challenges’ which has delayed his return to action.

The 32-year-old was recently declared fit to play after being sidelined for a long period with a groin injury.

Khune was forced to watch from the stands as Amakhosi claimed a thrilling 5-3 victory over Bloemfontein Celtic in the Absa Premiership last Saturday.

However, Khune relishes the chance to get back on the field and reclaim his No 1 spot in goal, currently held by Daniel Akpeyi.

‘I just want to say that the club released the statement two weeks ago declaring that I am match fit, but again there were challenges I needed to overcome, and I cannot really disclose those challenges,’ Khune told East Coast Radio.

‘But I have been training with the team. I have been slowly getting back into the mix. I have to give credit to Akpeyi, Bruce Bvuma, Brylon Petersen and goalkeeper-coach Lee Baxter for having done well in my absence.’

Khune admits it was hard for him to watch from the sidelines as he mended his way back from injury.

‘I was told that I will be out for two months and for four weeks I had to sit out because I couldn’t do anything – heavy weights, or any movement. It was even hard to sit on the chair or even drive to home or work,’ he added.

‘But with the technical team and the best medical team we have in the country, they were able to make sure I come back on the field in a month and two weeks.

‘Since then I have been battling with other challenges which I cannot disclose. It’s because people are going to quote me on that next time I am out injured.’