Mambare not dropped: Gorowa

Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS’ midfielder Masimba Mambare has not been dropped from the Zimbabwe Warriors squad as previously feared, head coach Ian “Dibango” Gorowa has confirmed.There has been widespread speculation that the Highlanders man had taken the flak for his poor showings at club level this year.

Mambare has been the captain of the locally-based national side and is expected to lead them during the Chan campaign, if he makes it into the squad as expected. His club Highlanders has reportedly offered him a three-year contract.

“Mambare is still part of our plans, he has not been dropped but was left out simply because I wanted to assess other players as we build up a team towards the African Nations Championship in South Africa next year,” said Gorowa soon after leading his side to a 2-1 win over visiting Mozambique in an international friendly at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.

The bald headed former Black Rhinos and Dynamos striker said he would soon announce his 28-man squad that will go to camp before trimming it to the final 23 players that will travel to South Africa for the bi-annual showpiece meant for players that are playing in their domestic leagues in Africa.

Meanwhile, Gorowa has defended his decision to field Milton Ncube as a leftback even though the player is a forward at his club Highlanders. “I think he plays well in that position. They have a very good combination with Bruce Kangwa at Highlanders but I realised that Bruce likes to venture forward too much while Milton is a bit reserved, he keeps his defensive role,” said Gorowa.

Zimbabwe’s next friendly match is expected to be against Libya or Gabon at Barbourfields Stadium as the Warriors intensify their preparations for Chan 2014. Zifa though is yet to confirm the match.

Gorowa is eyeing the winners’ podium next year, an indication that he will not leave anything to chance on the Warriors’ preparations.
“We want to go all the way, that is our target,” he said.

Hopes are high that the national association will have better preparations as the Warriors count down to Chan instead of the shambolic manner in which the Sunday friendly was organised.