UNITED FC's Zimbabwean coach, Shepherd Murape, believes the elevation of controversial former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Junior Khanye to captain of the National First Division side has helped him to mend his wayward behaviour.

Murape said they appointed Khanye captain at the beginning of the season to ensure he took on more responsibilities at the Free State side.

"It might be too early to start talking about Junior's behaviour since he took over the responsibilities at the club, but I can say the boy has shown a great deal of maturity," Murape said yesterday.

"We are not only looking at Khanye's leadership but also his experience. He is among a host of experience players we have and I don't have any shred of doubt that they will work wonders for the club.

"It is difficult in this division because most, if not all, teams have seasoned players in their books. But I think we will be equal to the task."

But Murape and his charges will have to redouble their efforts to succeed this term after a lukewarm start to the season.

They won one match, drew one and lost two and are sixth on the eight-team Inland Stream log.

Other seasoned campaigners at the club include Thembile Kanono, Alois Ngwerume, Mduduzi Mxele and Junior Sekete.

United's next assignment will be against University of Pretoria at De Beers Stadium in Kimberley on October 23.