Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
HIGHLANDERS coach Kelvin Kaindu says he is building a team that will compete with the best clubs in the league despite fears they may not be able to match the better resourced and financed teams.
Kaindu acknowledged that while other teams may have benefited from bigger budgets, his side are determined to make the most of their available resources as they work towards a successful campaign.
“Of course, finances are crucial, as you can see the teams that are financially stable have done their pre-season abroad.
“We have stayed in the country and are planning with whatever resources we have, building a team that will compete,” said Kaindu.
He remains focused on creating a competitive squad that will challenge for honours.
He said Highlanders have a responsibility to their supporters to perform at the highest level.
“Our target is to celebrate 100 years next year and bring smiles to our fans. We have youngsters in the team, and we hope they will settle in quickly,” said Kaindu.
“So far, so good in terms of preparations.
“We are working with what we have, and the spirit in the camp is positive.”
Kaindu said official announcements will be announced when deals for new players are finalised.
“We celebrate the time we had with the players who have left and wish them the best.
“The most important thing right now is to build a team that will make the supporters happy as we celebrate 100 years,” said Kaindu.
Among the new faces expected to join the squad are 19-year-old winger Mafious Chiweta and Malvern Hativagoni, whose deals are believed to have been finalised.
Chiweta is set to arrive from Ajax Hotspurs in the ZIFA Southern Region Division One and Kaindu is confident in the young player’s potential to make an impact.
Ghanaian striker Paul Orape is also one of the players Bosso are looking to bring in.
The departures of key players, including Lynoth Chikuhwa, Peter Muduhwa, Marvelous Chigumira and Godfrey Makaruse, has left significant gaps in the squad.
In addition, defender Andrew Tandi and midfielder Brian “Gaucho” Ndlovu have been released.
Midfielder Honest Mhlanga has suffered an ankle injury and is likely to be out of action for some time.
