SPIDERMAN RETURNS

Nicknamed Spiderman for his athleticisms between the sticks, Jacob Banda has returned to ZESCO United after retiring from the sport for almost a year.

Banda who joined ZESCO United in 2005 spent 16 years at the club and went on to become the teams most decorated player thus far.

The former Zambia National Team shot stopper last appeared in ZESCO United colours during the 2020/21 football season in which he won his ninth league title.

Banda’s retirement from the beautiful game marked the end of an illustrious career for a player whose life revolved around the game and whose loyalty has been to ZESCO United for almost three decades.

With ZESCO United going through seismic changes on and off the field, club management decided to adjust the technical bench.

Last month, ZESCO United management announced the appointment of the legendary shot stopper as club goalkeeper coach replacing Emmanuel Msichili.

Banda reacts to the appointment: “I am very happy and humbled. I wish to give credit to the executive and management for showing faith in me to come back to the team. I am very delighted. I will execute my duties diligently and without favor.

“It feels like coming back home again as you know ZESCO United is my place and home. I literary grew up within the corridors of this football club. I am grateful.”

Like Banda, former club veteran striker, Winston Kalengo was appointed club physical trainer taking over from Clive Hachilensa while Alfred Lupiya returned as second Assistant Coach taking over from Emmanuel Siwale.

Author: Desmond Katongo