Meyiwa earns Khune's praise

Johannesburg - Itumeleng Khune believes long-time goalkeeping rival Senzo Meyiwa's call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad to face Malawi is long overdue.

According to the football411.com website, having overtaken South Africa shot-stopper Moeneeb Josephs at Orlando Pirates this season with several strong performances, Meyiwa earned national coach Gordon Igesund's selection in midweek.

Meyiwa has joined Kaizer Chiefs' Khune and Mamelodi Sundowns number one Wayne Sandilands in the 24-man side for next Saturday's friendly with the Flames in Durban.

Khune, who was an age-group contemporary of Meyiwa, reckons the Bucs gloveman's patience and work ethic has finally paid off.

"I am proud of Senzo and the progress he has made," Khune told The Sowetan.

"He has been very patient because (Moeneeb) Josephs has been doing very well. In football, that is what you get if you work hard, you will always get a prize.

"We are going to meet again in the Bafana squad. We played together in the under-17, -20s and -23s and it's good for the country the players who are doing well are being called up. I think Senzo deserves it."