NEW signing Bongani Khumalo has vowed to fight for a place in the Tottenham first team after the centre back’s £1.5 million transfer was confirmed. Despite facing competition from such players as William Gallas, Ledley King and Sebastian Bassong, Khumalo believes he can make an impact in defence.
NEW signing Bongani Khumalo has vowed to fight for a place in the Tottenham first team after the centre back’s £1.5 million transfer was confirmed.
Despite facing competition from such players as William Gallas, Ledley King and Sebastian Bassong, Khumalo believes he can make an impact in defence.
"At 23, I think I’m ready to challenge for a place in the first team,” he told BBC Sport. The South African will move in January subject to receiving a work permit.
"It may take a bit of time to settle in but I’ve played at the World Cup and I have the confidence in my ability to play in the Premier League.”
The SuperSport United player was also quick to deny suggestions that he may be sent on loan to gain experience of English football.
"I think the manager is hoping I will be able to fit in with his plans straight away and I believe I’m good enough to do that,” he said.
The transfer caps a remarkable year for the Swaziland-born star, who joined reigning South African champions SuperSport United while still studying for a university degree in 2007.
He had previously turned down a chance to join Manchester United and Chelsea after impressing for Arcadia Shepherds as a 16-year-old at a youth tournament in Northern Ireland.
Agencies