Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, [email protected]
THE Highlanders executive’s effectiveness in running the affairs of this great club have been called into focus after the first team stars did not train yesterday over outstanding dues.
Players are owed salaries and winning bonuses.
This has affected preparations for the upcoming Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against Dynamos set for Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.
Sources close to the Bosso camp revealed that frustration among players reached breaking point this week after months of uncertainty surrounding their dues. Several players are understood to have stayed away from training sessions in protest, demanding that the club address the salary backlog that has become a growing source of concern within the dressing room.
The latest industrial action has once again brought into sharp focus the financial challenges confronting one of Zimbabwe’s most decorated football institutions. Questions are also being asked about the present leadership which has failed to address the players on the situation.
According to sources, players have made numerous attempts to engage club leadership over the issue but have become increasingly frustrated by the lack of concrete progress.
“We have tried to be patient because we understand the challenges that football clubs are facing, but there comes a time when enough is enough,” said one senior player who requested anonymity for fear of victimisation.
“We have families, rentals, school fees and other responsibilities. Football is our profession and salaries are not a favour. They are something we work for every day. It becomes difficult to remain motivated when there is no certainty about when you will be paid.”
Another player said the squad’s decision to boycott training was not taken lightly, especially considering the magnitude of the fixtures that lie ahead.
“Nobody wants to miss training. We all want to represent Highlanders and make our supporters proud. However, we felt that our concerns were not being heard. We have raised these issues repeatedly and we believe this was the only way to send a clear message,” said the player.
The source added that morale within the squad has been steadily deteriorating as uncertainty over salaries continued to linger.
“Players are trying to remain professional, but when you are constantly worried about how you will take care of your family, it inevitably affects your concentration. These are issues that weigh heavily on people’s minds.”
A third player painted a picture of a dressing room battling to remain united amid growing frustration.
“The spirit is still there because everyone loves this club. We all understand what Highlanders means to the supporters and the city of Bulawayo. But love for the badge alone cannot solve personal financial problems. Players have commitments and expectations just like everyone else,” he said.
Efforts to get a comment from Highlanders were not successful. – @FungaMuderere.
