Kaindu counts on Fifa ban lift to bolster squad energy| Highlanders eye redemption

HIGHLANDERS coach Kelvin Kaindu is eagerly waiting for the lifting of the club’s Fifa transfer ban as his side prepares for their first home match of the season against Kwekwe United at Barbourfields Stadium this Sunday.

Kaindu believes the registration of new players will provide a much-needed boost to his squad, which has at the moment has a limited player pool.

Now that the club’s debt has been cleared, Kaindu is hopeful that Fifa will lift the ban to allow the registration of the new players.

The new players include defender Malvern Hativagoni, winger Tendai Muvuti, midfielders Hubert Ncube, Mafious Chiweta, striker Mbonisi Ncube and Never Rauzhi, another striker expected to return to the club.

These additions are expected to significantly boost the team’s depth and help them recover from a disappointing season opener.
“We are preparing well. As you know, we did not start well in our first game. We are obviously hoping to improve from the last game we played. We are hopeful that Fifa will lift the ban on the players before the weekend game,” said Kaindu.

He was, however, reluctant to give details regarding what the club has done so far to have the ban lifted saying the club’s administration was handling the issue.

Kaindu said as a coach he is focusing on the task at hand which is securing a victory at home, which will be crucial for keeping them within reach of the top teams.

“This is our first home game with our massive crowd behind us. We need to pick up maximum points and stay within the top pack. We cannot afford to lose any further ground,” said Kaindu.

Highlanders are eager to bounce back from a 1-0 loss to MWOS FC in their opening match of the season.

In contrast, Kwekwe United, who are buoyed by a 1-1 draw against Ngezi Platinum in their topflight debut, will be looking to build on their early-season form.

While Kwekwe United’s focus is on survival, Highlanders are determined to recover from their disappointing start to the season. — @innocentskizoe.