adminAugustine Hwata Sports Reporter
AFTER spending six years in the wilderness, Chapungu return to the Premiership this season with their coach John Nyikadzino saying they will not be making wholesale changes to their squad. The Gweru-based Air force of Zimbabwe side won the Zifa Central Region Division One championship last season after losing only one match during the whole campaign.
Nyikadzino yesterday said their aim was to retain their Castle Lager Premiership status at the end of the season.
“So far we are assessing the squad that we had last season. I think we have a good team considering that we lost just one game to Town United and I think we should have faith in the guys who helped us,” said Nyikadzino.
Veteran Chapungu striker Philip Marufu was loaned to Black Rhinos in the last half of the season where he helped them survive relegation.
Nyikadzino yesterday hinted that they were not likely to recall Marufu.
“For now I do not think we should be recalling him soon. Besides I have made a number of signings during the off-season,” said Nyikadzino.
Chapungu have recruited Roy Mazingi from Shabanie while they have also signed Maxwell Mavhuto from relegated Tripple B.
“We are still negotiating with a few other players at the moment but basically I have faith in the squad from last season.
“Some of the players in the squad once played in the Premier League,” said Nyikadzino.
Chapungu, who will use Ascot for their home matches, are understood to be considering defensive midfielder Milton Makopa who had been overlooked by Dynamos in their African Champions League squad.
Online Reporter