Chiefs coach dismisses FC Platinum link

BULAWAYO Chiefs coach, Thulani Sibanda, has denied reports linking him to FC Platinum, ahead of today’s clash between the two teams.

There have been reports Sibanda has been earmarked for a technical team job at the former champions and talks have already been held between the two parties.

Sibanda labelled the reports as baseless, stating, “There’s no truth in those reports. In this industry, rumours will always circulate. I have seen the matter circulating on social media, but there is no truth to it,” said Sibanda.

Chiefs, sitting 14th with 35 points from 31 games, are fighting relegation. Sibanda acknowledged the challenge, saying, “A victory would be crucial for us. It won’t be easy at Mandava, but we have what it takes to get a result. We have been in this relegation situation before and we know how to get out of it,” said Sibanda.

Sibanda’s focus remains on securing Chiefs’ top-flight status. He has faced a tumultuous season, forced to rebuild his team twice. Sibanda’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in securing Chiefs’ top-flight status having saved the club from relegation before.

The gaffer had seemingly built a strong team at the start of the season but lost the majority of his players during the mid-season transfer-window. It was a period that saw the duo of Tatenda Ndlovu and Malvin Sithole leave to join Wangu Mazodze in the Central Region Division One League while Nkosiyabo Masilela and the experienced Xolisani Moyo joined TelOne.

Masilela is said to have been on the Highlanders radar before eventually settling for TelOne. Highlanders got Never Rauzhi on loan while defender and captain Malvern Hativagoni is now with Ngezi Platinum.

Some of the players that went on to join Chiefs include Sibusiso Ndlovu, Thembelani Sibanda, Robert Kwaramba, Migos Svinurayi, Prince Nhlanhla Phiri, Reason Sibanda, Brian Chidzondo and Kelvin Ayanda Tshuma. — @innocentskizoe