Euro stars getting into the groove

Blessing Malinganiza

ZIMBABWEAN footballers in Europe are slowly getting into the pre-season groove.

Many of them returned to the field, for the first time, as they continued their preparations for the 2022/23 season.

France-based Tinotenda Kadewere came on as a second-half substitute in Lyon’s 4-2 victory over third-tier club Football Bourg-en-Bresse Péronnas 01.

Kadewere was included in the squad despite reports he could leave the club.

Ligue 1 side Brest have expressed interest in the services of the Warriors forward.

Another French team, and several German clubs, are also monitoring the player.

Marshall Munetsi was also in action on Saturday as his French team, Stade de Reims, lost 2-1 to FC Gobelins in their first pre-season friendly match.

Munetsi started the match before the coach brought in a new line-up in the second half.

England-based Macauley Bonne was on target in QPR’s friendly against Crawley Town.

Bonne came on at the start of the second half and netted two goals in ten minutes as Rangers drew 3-3.

The 26-year-old is yet to decide whether to stay at the club or move on loan again to Ipswich Town.

Aston Villa’s Marvelous Nakamba received praise for his performance in the 4-0 victory over English League Two side Walsall FC.

The midfielder was in the Villa first XI, which included several fringe players, but also featured regulars from last season like captain Tyrone Mings, Bertrand Traoré and Leon Bailey.

Nakamba started the match and played until half-time.