Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has been handed the captain’s armband for the 2016-17 Absa Premiership season.

The Bafana Bafana goalkeeper who takes over from Siphiwe Tshabalala will now lead the team in their first Absa Premiership match against Bidvest Wits at the Bidvest Stadium on August 23.

Khune insists he is ready for the leadership role and knows all about the responsibilities and pressure that comes with wearing the armband.

‘All that I can say is that I am ready to lead,’ Khune told the Kaizer Chiefs website.

‘I have led before and I know what the armband comes with. It comes with a lot of pressure.’

The 29-year-old continued to say that he enjoys the pressure as it forces him to play at his best and he hopes that he can influence his teammates to do the same.

‘I enjoy playing under pressure because it brings the best out of me. And, I am able to pass this to my teammates. Our supporters demand results. We are ready to defend the badge and make our supporters happy,’ he added.

Kick-off has been set for 19:30.