Ng’ambi rules himself out, Mzava and Phiri fit
Flames veteran midfielder Robert Ng’ambi has ruled himself out of the forthcoming 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier against Comoros slated for November 18.
Ng’ambi, who is currently unattached, said although he has recovered from injury, he is not fit enough for competitive action.
“The thing is I have not played competitive football for quite a while and I need a bit of time to pick myself up, I doubt my level of fitness.
“I think it will not be fair to a national cause as well as myself to rush into action. I need to take a step at a time,” he said.
Ng’ambi picked an injury during trials with a Cypriot side in August and has not played competitive football since parting ways with Platinum Stars, who were relegated from the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) last season.
In a related development, South Africa-based Flames captain Limbikani ‘Pupa’ Mzava says he is now fit for the Comoros game having recovered from a knee injury.
“I have been playing games regularly for my club and that means I am fit and available for selection,” said the Golden Arrows defender yesterday from his Durban base.
However, Flames assistant coach Peter Mponda was quoted by The Daily Times of yesterday that Mzava’s consideration is doubtful due to lack of updates on his perceived injury.
The duo, alongside another South Africa-based midfielder Gerald Phiri Jnr, missed the Flames’ back-to-back Afcon qualifiers against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions.
Ng’ambi also missed the game against Morocco. Phiri also said he has recoverred fully and is available for selection.
The Flames are third in Group B with four points from four games, four points behind leaders Cameroon while Morocco are second with seven points. Comoros anchor the four-team group with two points.
