Khumalo: It's been tough

Cape Town - Bongani Khumalo speaks like an excited child who has just been given his first ball when he talks about his future with Bidvest Wits.

The former Tottenham Hotspur player has re-united with coach Gavin Hunt, whom he won three Absa Premiership titles with before making the switch to England.

His stay there was unsuccessful, sent to numerous loan spells in the five years he spent there. He also found found it tough going at Matsatsantsa which prompted him to join Wits recently.

"I am 29 and I have had some incredible experiences," Khumalo told Vodacom Soccer.

"It has been tough. I have had challenges, major injuries that took me out for a long time.

"I have gone through that and have taken it on the chin, whether it is criticism or positive reports.

"I would like to think that I am a mature man in this game. Right now, at 29, I just want to play and enjoy my game. I just want to enjoy it and keep winning.

"I want the experience that I have, all the tough times and good times to come together and form ultimately the best player that I can be at this point in my life.

"I am still hungry. I have the pure desire to play the game, for me that's the most important thing."

Khumalo will have to work hard to break into a team that has a solid defense that includes Thulani Hlatshwayo, Nazeer Allie and Buhle Mkhwanazi.

He is unlikely to start against Mpumalanga Black Aces on Friday at Bidvest Stadium in the club's bid to continue being at the summit.

"I rely on my character," Khumalo added. "I don't rely on my talent. I rely on my character and pure hard work, that's what has gotten me to the levels that I have played at and the little bit that I have achieved.

"It's character and hard work. That's it. Every single day."