Kaizer Chiefs boss Ernst Middendorp has revealed that goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was not included in the Amakhosi squad on Wednesday night because he had ‘missed training sessions for different reasons’.

Khune watched from the sidelines this season as Nigerian Daniel Akpeyi went on to establish himself as the No 1 under Middendorp.

Despite Khune being back to full fitness, Middendorp has decided to stick with Akpeyi. It came as no surprise, then, when he started in goal for the 1-1 draw with Bidvest at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening.

The surprise, however, came on the subs bench as Bruce Bvuma was selected ahead of Khune.

Speaking to the media post-match, Middendorp was asked about the keeper’s absence. He then revealed that the shotstopper was not injured but had missed several training sessions.

‘He missed some training sessions for different reasons in terms of having a challenge, I don’t want to put too much in. We are not discussing any injuries, during the entire time we haven’t spoken about any injury. It is simple and easy, there were a number of training days where he couldn’t make it and good, you decide and today it was Daniel Akpeyi and Bruce and let’s move forward to the next game,’ Middendorp explained.

Chiefs are next in action against Polokwane City this weekend where Akpeyi is expected to continue in goals.