In this edition of In The Spotlight, KickOff catches up with former Kaizer Chiefs exciting winger Junior Khanye.
Khanye expresses his disappointment with how football executives have failed some of the greatest talents to emerge from South Africa.
Growing up, who was your idol?
"My idol was Lawrence Thabo 'Tsiki-Tsiki' Mooki. I started out playing as a central midfielder; I was also a Karateka. I wore jersey number 12, and I grew up supporting Kaizer Chiefs, influenced by my father. Even my mom loves Chiefs. Thabo Mooki was a star—an excellent box-to-box attacking midfielder who could shoot with both feet. He was a match-winner and a playmaker, capable of playing on both the left and the right."
How did you get to play for Chiefs?
"I joined Chiefs when Ryder Mofokeng was the coach of the development team. I was brought in by the legendary Chiefs scout, Mr. Mehlomakhulu.
"Initially, they told me they weren't looking for players. I was 18 years old, and Ryder was coaching the Under-19 team, following my recognition as player of the tournament in a high school tournament in Daveyton.
"The next day, Chiefs had a friendly match against another club, and Mr. Mehlomkhulu pleaded with the opposing coaches to let me play, but they refused, which was understandable since they also wanted to showcase their players.
"With 10 minutes left in the game, Chiefs were leading them 6-0, so they decided to put me in. With my very first touch, I scored a stunning goal from outside the center circle. For my second goal, I was fouled in the box and converted a cheeky penalty. We lost 6-2, the rest is history."
Who is your best friend in football?
"My best friend in football is Lucky Mzizi. That boy was a star but didn't get enough opportunities to showcase his talent. I knew him from the Chiefs reserve side."
Is there anything you dislike about football?
"As footballers, we come from different backgrounds. Some are raised by both parents, while others are raised by single parents or grandparents.
"When you suddenly start earning money from playing football, it's easy to make mistakes. In South Africa, we struggle to protect our talent, resulting in the loss of many gifted players. We lose talents early because we don't safeguard them. Players like Sipho Nunens, Zitha Mofokeng, Skaapie Malatsi, Phakamani Mahlambi, Masibusane Zongo, Mbulelo Mabizela, and Lerato Chabangu have fallen by the wayside. In South Africa, we rush into decisions. We need to find mentors for these kids."
If you could join any club in South Africa right now, which club would it be?
"I would join Orlando Pirates. They have a skillful team and allow players to express themselves. Their coach understands his players."
Who is your favorite player in South Africa at the moment?
"My favorite players currently are Relebohile Mofokeng and Lucas Ribeiro. They are both very skillful."
At which club did you enjoy your football the most?
"Honestly, I never played to my full potential. I played my best football in the development team. With the Kaizer Chiefs first team, I won nine or ten 'Man of the Match' awards in a row. So, I enjoyed my time at Chiefs."