Kaizer Chiefs have sent a tribute message to former goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo after a recurring ankle injury forced his early retirement.

The 29-year-old had a nightmare of a time since joining Pirates from Amakhosi at the start of last season and missed the entire campaign after struggling with the recurring injury.

Khuzwayo was selected by fans to start in last weekend’s Carling Black Label Cup against the Glamour Boys, but was withdrawn from the squad at the last minute although he was deemed fit to play.

However, it was confirmed by the Sea Robbers that after corroborated independent medical reports the former Bafana Bafana shotstopper will hang up his boots.

‘Unfortunately, due to my ankle, I was unable to fulfil my dream,’ Khuzwayo said in a statement released by the club.

‘I am a person who always wants to perform knowing I can give my all in everything I do. However, due to my ankle and after consultation with the specialists it was said that I wouldn’t be able to play at an elite level. For this reason, I can no longer continue the way I wanted to.’

Meanwhile, Amakhosi praised the shotstopper for his ‘discipline, distinction and dedication’ to the game following his early retirement.

‘It’s very sad that one of our own is leaving the game prematurely. @Brilliekhuzwayo. You served football with discipline, distinction and dedication. We’ll miss your hard work and brilliance on and off the pitch. You remain one of us and we will always love you as Amakhosi,’ Chiefs said in a Twitter post.