Nomads play down fears over players’ exodus
Mighty Wanderers FC have dismissed fears that they risk finding themselves in relegated Escom United’s situation following the imminent departure of six key players who are linked with foreign teams.
Two key players, captain Foster Namwela and enterprising winger Gerald Phiri Jnr, are linked with a possible move to Zimbabwean club Caps United. Three others Moses Chavula, Gerald Chimbaka and Innocent Jere are also on the verge of signing for a top Mozambican side Ferroviario de Nacala whereas midfielder Joseph Kamwendo recently signed for another top Mozambican club Liga Maculmana.
Escom United lost the plot when the bulk of their key players such as Chimango Kayira, James Chilapondwa, Heston Munthali, Young Chimodzi Jnr, Chipiliro Jose and Charles Swini were transfer-listed.
However, the Nomads general secretary David Kanyenda played down the fears on Monday.
“Our case is different to that of Escom because they [Escom] actually sacked their players while we did not sack any player, they have been leaving gradually.
“We played five games and won three of them against Azam Tigers, Red Lions and Silver Strikers then we drew against Civo United without Kamwendo. We lost only once against Mafco.
“This shows our brand is of international repute,” boasted Kanyenda.
He also argued that Chavula and Jere were not regulars.
“In any case, we have Francis Mulimbika and Mike Kaziputa as cover, but there will indeed be need to replace Gerald Jnr, Foster and Chimbaka,” said Kanyenda.
He also said the Nomads will soon embark on a massive clear-out aimed at getting rid of dead wood and bringing in a new crop of players.
“We have plans to invade the transfer market. We are also planning to promote some promising players from our youth side. There is no future for achipolenji [surplus to requirements],” he said.
