Akpeyi: No Rivalry With Bafana Goalie Khune

Nigeria goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi insists that there is no rivalry between him and Itumeleng Khune at Kaizer Chiefs.

Akpeyi has been enjoying regular game time as Kaizer Chiefs’ first-choice goalkeeper in the absence of club captain Khune who has spent time on the sidelines due to injury.

Khune recently resumed full training with his teammates but his absence has had no impact on the team thanks to Akpeyi’s great form between the sticks.

Akpeyi won the Premier Soccer League Player of the Month award for September/October on Thursday and the 33-year-old keeper has explained his relationship with Khune.

“On Khune‚ I don’t think we are having any fight on who is going to be the No 1 or not,” Akpeyi told reporters.

“It’s only an opportunity that I’m having‚ having the coach to have confidence in me while Khune is injured.”

The Nigeria international revealed that Khune has been very supportive despite the duo fighting for the same spot in the team.

“If Khune is fine and the coach decides on whoever he wants to play‚ we are cool,” he explained.

“The good thing is that we have healthy competition in that department and everybody is pushing each other.

“One thing I like about Khune is that he supports you‚ from what I can see. He’s not actually looking at Daniel being No 2‚ or No 1‚ or something.

“It’s about being given the opportunity‚ and we support each other from there.”