Fazili suspension lifted

TNM Super League giants Silver Strikers have reinstated assistant coach Lovemore Fazili who was suspended three weeks ago on disciplinary grounds.

The Bankers chairperson Ralph Tseka yesterday confirmed the development, saying the lifting of Fazili’s suspension was with immediate effect.

He said the decision to reinstate Fazili was reached because there was no evidence on the accusations levelled against him.

“He has, therefore, been exonerated of all accusations,” said Tseka.

Fazili resumed his duties yesterday and is expected to lead the Bankers when they face Dwangwa United in a TNM Super League fixture at Chitowe Stadium this afternoon.

However, co-accused team manager Francis Songo, is still serving his suspension.

“As for the team manager [Songo], his case is still pending,” said Tseka.

Fazili confirmed the development, saying he was glad that he has been vindicated.

Soccer analyst Kim Kamau observed that the Bankers erred in suspending Fazili without evidence when the team’s problems are beyond the coach.

“In his [Fazili] absence, nothing changed. It all goes back to the players themselves. They need to pull up their socks,” he said.

The Bankers have recently been struggling in both the TNM Super League and cup competitions.

They failed to defend the Airtel Top 8 and were also booted out of Carlsberg Cup.

The technical panel was given a three-game ultimatum, but before it expired, the executive suspended Fazili and Songo on disciplinary charges, saying they established that their misconduct contributed to the team’s poor performance.

Though on second position on the TNM Super League table, the Bankers have won four, drawn four and lost two out of their last 10 matches.