Jessica Motaung: Itumeleng Khune is still very much part of Kaizer Chiefs

Chiefs on Thursday confirmed that, following a rigorous disciplinary hearing, they had decided to temporarily suspend Khune from the team while also stripping him of his captaincy.

READ: Brian Baloyi challenges Itumeleng Khune to prove his worth

This follows earlier media reports that the 36-year-old came to training under the influence of alcohol, and Motaung says this action is also about assisting the players.

"The statement was very important in setting the tone for, not just the young ones but also, the other players in the team, to say that we're a team of integrity, high standards and also of unity," stressed Motaung.

"It's also making sure that if one doesn't do things right, we address it, but as much as there's discipline [measures], we also want to make sure we assist our players, and empower our players. So, I trust that our players take it very, very seriously."

Khune, the longest-serving player at Chiefs, is in his last season as a player at the club, with Motaung also quick to state that these corrective measures are aimed at making him a better person on and off the field.

"Khune has been a part of this club for many years, I mean I've seen him grow, he's like a younger brother. But also, he's contributed immensely to Kaizer Chiefs, he's been a captain for many years and contributed to the national team," she noted.

"And it's very important that, even when someone makes a mistake, you find time and the opportunity to sit down and address those issues, and while there is discipline, you also find a way to help someone deal with things.

"That, for me, is very important in this process, we've talked extensively and I even called him this morning – it's a tough journey, but I see a young man who's willing to do the work and we're here with him.

"But certainly, the message is also, you need to be disciplined, you need to do the work properly and you need to understand that we're part of a team in which accountability and leadership must be done with integrity."

ALSO READ: Cavin Johnson refuses to disclose Kaizer Chiefs weak points