Tawonga Chimodzi lands Greece gold

Flames’ slick midfielder Tawonga Chimodzi has quietly signed a one-year dream contract with Greek second-tier league side Iraklis Psachnon FC to become Malawi’s top 2013 football export so far.

The 25-year-old yesterday confirmed joining Psachnon as a free agent after severing ties with South Africa First Division side Santos in June this year where he was since 2007.

“Yes, for now by the grace of the Lord I have joined Iraklis Psachnon. I didn’t go through trials. I am happy and it’s a new challenge that I can [by the grace of God] bear despite what many can think,” Chimodzi explained through e-mail.

The reserved son to legendary Young Chimodzi refused to compare Greek football standards to those of South Africa where injuries slowed down his progress. His team is based in Psachna town.

“It will be unwise of me to compare the standards. My concern is how I can [help the team] to get what they are looking for or attain standard they want,” said Tawonga.

Young was happy for the ex-Silver Strikers midfielder who debuted for the Flames at the 2003 Cosafa Senior ChallengeCup in Swaziland under English coach Stephen Constantine.

“It is a rare chance to play in a top football country such as Greece and we are happy for him. We hope his career will take a big step,” said the ex-Flames assistant coach yesterday.

The Nation has established that Tawonga is the only foreigner among Psachnon’s new 12 signings this season.

The team finished 11th in the 21-member second league last season.

In 2007, former Santos coach Jean Marc Ithier praised Tawonga, saying, “This boy is technically correct. He showed a kind of maturity against Pirates seldom seen in boys his age. He has the ability to make things happen further forward.”