Leaner reveals how he could dislodge Petersen at Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner has opened up about his debut for the club just before the international break.

Leaner played his first official match for Amakhosi during their goalless draw against Golden Arrows nearly two weeks ago and made two key saves that helped the team keep a rare clean sheet.

The goalkeeper profited from an injury to first-choice Brandon Petersen and he showed why he perhaps deserves a place in the team ahead of the club captain.

How Leaner prepared for Chiefs debut

“It was really exciting for me to play my first game because it has always been a dream for me to play for Kaizer Chiefs, one of the biggest teams in South Africa,” Leaner told the club’s website.

While Petersen has looked bereft of confidence, making a number of costly errors so far this season, Leaner was the opposite and he has shared how he prepared for his debut, something that could convince coach Fernando da Cruz to stick with him in goal.

“I was able to make those saves because I went into the game with confidence and was very focused, which made me ready for action,” added the 28-year-old.

Will Petersen regain his place in goal?

After getting a feel of what it means to play for the Glamour Boys, the former Sekhukhune United star is looking to nail down a place in the team and show the fans what he is made of.

“I see a bright future for myself where I can become a better goalkeeper in the future and achieve great things in my career,” stated Leaner.

The goalkeeper is in line for his second match in Chiefs colours next Tuesday against Stellenbosch FC before the Soweto giants kick off their CAF Confederation Cup campaign against Zambian outfit Red Arrows in the second preliminary round on October 17.

Another great performance will enhance his chances of dislodging Petersen who might find it hard to regain his place when he returns from injury.