Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS coach Pieter De Jongh says he has firm views on the quality of his squad but will not air them in public until the club secures its Premier Soccer League status.
The Dutchman revealed he has already shared his assessment with the club’s leadership, but stressed his immediate focus is to keep Bosso safe from relegation.
“I cannot talk directly right now about the quality of players. Of course, I did already give my opinion to the executive committee and the CEO about the squad, but for now the focus is to survive. After that, we will see what we can do,” said De Jongh.
His comments come as debate continues among fans and analysts over whether the current Highlanders side has enough depth and consistency to withstand the pressure of the run-in. Though he avoided direct criticism, his words hinted at changes once the short-term job is done.
“I do have my opinion on the squad but now is not a good time for me to give my opinion,” he added.
Since his arrival, De Jongh has overseen gradual progress, pointing to improved performances as evidence that the squad can deliver under pressure. In the league he has taken charge of four matches, with one win, two draws and one defeat. He has also guided Bosso into the Chibuku Super Cup semi-finals where they will face Dynamos.
“I think you have also seen that from the first game I arrived, we have continued to improve,” he said.
Highlanders sit on 33 points heading into Sunday’s clash with Herentals at Rufaro Stadium. De Jongh believes reaching 39 or 40 points will be enough to guarantee safety. Herentals, meanwhile, are seventh on the table with 43 points.
Bosso’s run-in is demanding. After Herentals, they face Dynamos, then log leaders Simba Bhora away, before returning home to take on Manica Diamonds and finishing the season with a city derby against Chicken Inn.
Other Week 30 fixtures
Today: Chicken Inn v Scottland (Barbourfields Stadium).
Tomorrow: TelOne v Kwekwe United (Ascot Stadium); MWOS v GreenFuel (Ngoni Stadium); Manica Diamonds v Triangle United (Sakubva Stadium); Simba Bhora v CAPS United (Wadzanayi Stadium); ZPC Kariba v Bikita Minerals (Nyamhunga Stadium); Dynamos v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Rufaro Stadium); FC Platinum v Yadah Stars (Mandava Stadium).
Sunday: Herentals College v Highlanders (Rufaro Stadium). — @InnocentKurira
