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Raymond Jaravaza
HIGHLANDERS coach Erol Akbay is expected back in Bulawayo from the Netherlands in the first week of February, a fortnight after his assistants will have started assessing new players that Bosso hope to sign in preparation for the 2017 season.
Unlike in past when Bosso held open trials before the start of a new season, this time around the technical team led by Akbay will identify targeted players and invite them to train with team before committing pen to paper.
Before his arrival in February the targeted players will train with assistants Amini Soma Phiri and goalkeepersa�� coach Cosmas Zulu starting from 17 January.
It is only after head coach Akbay is satisfied that the targeted players make the grade to don the black and white jersey that the club will offer contacts on the table.
a�?The technical team will identify the players they would like to assess and we will invite the players to train with us.
In cases where an invited player is contracted to another club then we will seek the necessary clearance documents so that the player can train with us.
a�?The technical will invite players with an emphasis on specific departments which they feel should be boosted before the start of the 2017 season,a�? said club secretary general Emmert Ndlovu.
There have been fears that if the event that Bosso principal sponsor Banc ABC do not renew their contract with the Bulawayo giants then coach Akbay will not retain to the Amahlolanyama.
The reason being without Banc ABC, who pay the technical team as well as the playersa�� salaries, Akbay is not guaranteed of receiving his monthly pay from the financially challenged club.
The contract between the financial services provider and Highlanders expires at the end of the year.
Talks to renew the contract have been ongoing although both parties remain mum on the progress of the negotiations.
a�?Akbay is contracted to Highlanders and will return in the first week of February,a�? said Ndlovu.
The Dutchman left for his home country earlier in the week for the festive season break.
derick.khumalo