MUMAMBA’S YOUTH POLICY EXCITES GRADUATES

ZESCO United have intensified their pre-season preparations ahead of the 2020/2021 FAZ MTN Super League season.

The eight-times Super League Champions will begin their journey to return the league title at the backend of a series of radical changes both on and off the pitch.

September begun with the promotion of six young players from ZESCO United’s feeder teams to the main team.

This development was followed by the signing of Bruce Musakanya from Red Arrows on a two-year loan deal, and the capture of Kelvin Kampamba from Nkana on a two-year permanent deal.

Exciting Green Eagles winger, Lazarus Phiri also made the cut on a year-loan deal with Congolese striker, David Molinga making a switch from Young Africans, sealing a two-year contract.

However, it is the arrival of Numba Mumamba as team head coach that has put every member of the ZESCO United squad on their heels, especially the new graduates.

Like the rest of the senior members of the squad, the six young stars will be on their toes to impress the new coach especially after his declaration to accommodate youth in his plans.

“My philosophy has always revolved around mixing young and old players. I can see that there are already young players who are fighting to get first team football.

I will give them a chance to play but they must prove to us that they can play for this club by working hard and remaining disciplined. They will be given a chance to thrive.”

Willard Nkausu is among the six players who have thus far spent three weeks with the main team.

“Personally I am excited with the coach’s commitment to give young players a chance to shine at the club. It is good news for the six of us. What is left is for us to prove that we can play.

This is an important opportunity for each one of us. I have learnt quite a lot from the little time we have spent together. I am growing both physically and mentally.”

Former Zesco Malaiti Rangers defender, Gilbert Tembo is thrilled with the prospect of playing first team football.

“We are happy with the news that the coach is ready to give everyone a chance to prove themselves especially us young ones. This is a team with a lot of experienced players but we also know that there is a reason why we were chosen.

The focus is to continue working hard and show the new coach that we can play at the highest level of the game.”

Tembo has already found mentors. Kenyan international striker Jesse Were and defender, David Odhiambo have been offering the young defender some sound advice.

“I have made a lot of friends back here. I am actually close to Were and Odhiambo. They have been advising me to work hard, to remain focused and to respect everyone in the team.”

The six graduates are among the ZESCO United squad that has set up base in Mongu, Western Province ahead of the 2020/2021 FAZ/MTN season.

ZESCO United will tomorrow face Zesco Shockers in a pre-season friendly game to be played at the Independence stadium in Mongu before returning to Ndola on Sunday.

Author: Desmond Katongo