Malawi coach calls 16 foreign-based players, Kanyenda dropped
Malawi coach Kinnah Phiri has released a 16-man foreign legion cheduled to go into camp in readiness of three crucial encounters in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers and Africa Cup of Nations in June.
The Flames will take on Kenya and Nigeria in the World Cup qualifiers before facing Chad in the second leg of the Africa Cup of Nations at Kamuzu Stadium at home in Blantyre.
In his squad, Phiri has included at South African based players, Mozambican based players and the only Spanish based player Robin Ngalande.
From Mozambique, Phiri has selected Flames goalkeeper Simplex Nthara and Zicco Mkanda while from South Africa the likes of Flames dangerous raider Moses ‘Luba’ Chavula, Robert ‘Baggio’ Ng’ambi, Peter Wadabwa, Jimmy Zakazaka, Atusaye ‘Atute’ Nyondo, Harry Nyirenda, Tawonga Chimodzi have also been included.
Flames captain Peter ‘Mjojo’ Mponda is also in the squad alongside unattached Flames gangling striker Russel Mwafulirwa, Chiukepo Msowoya, James Sangala, Limbikani Mzava and Dave Banda.
However, missing on the list is Flames vast experienced striker Esau ‘Black Mamba’ Kanyenda, who is in Denmark to sign for a second division side coached by former Flames mentor Kim Splidsboel.
Phiri has left completely, South African based duo of Jacob Ngwira and Swadick Sanudi in the squad.
According to Football Association of Malawi (FAM) CEO Sugzo Nyirenda the foreign legion players will start jetting in the country this weekend to join locally based who are already in camp.
Atletico Madrid skillful striker Robin Ngalande confirmed with Nyasa Times that he is expected home on Sunday.
“I am done with everything concerning about the trip. I am more than ready to play for my country so that at least we collect maximum points in our first game against Kenya,” said Ngalande.
The Flames will play Tanzania aka the Taifa Stars in a friendly testing match before proceeding to Kenya to meet the Harambee Stars.
