Bullets not shaken
Nyasa Big Bullets say they are not panicking over the departure of some key players to foreign clubs and that they have no immediate plans to identify their replacements.
The People’s Team has lost winger Peter Banda to Moldovan top league club FC Sherrif Tiraspor, Mike Mkwate to South African second-tier league side Polokwane City with left back Precious Sambani set to join DStv Premiership outfit Lomontiville Golden Arrows after undergoing successful trials.
In an interview, Bullets chief administration officer Albert Chigoga yesterday said: “The coach has, at his disposal, different options in the positions held by players who have left or are living.
“As a club, every decision we make is for the good of the team and our title defence campaign is not at any risk.
“There is a plan technically to make the team’s balance in all departments as effective as possible and, therefore, we have no reason to worry.”
The club’s assistant coach Peter ‘Mjojo’ Mponda also played down the trio’s departure, saying they have faith in all the players they signed.
“First and foremost, as a club, we are happy to see young talent going outside the country to further their careers. It also speaks volumes about head coach Callisto Pasuwa as a great coach.
“He does not only focus on results, but also improving the players.
“In terms of defending the title, it has always been tough. Last season we did it the hard way and we believe this season it can also be done.
“At Bullets, it’s not about individuals or names, its about team work,” he said.
However, the club’s legend and former coach Kinnah Phiri said while the People’s Team might have depth in their squad, they will be affected by the departure of the trio.
He said: “They might just be putting on a brave face, otherwise we are talking about two or three key players.
“The unfortunate part is that the team is also haunted by injuries.
“Nevertheless, having said that, there has always been a never-say-die-spirit at Bullets and that has always been the club’s strongest weapon. It is also good that players are being allowed to go and play abroad.”
