MARVE WELCOMES COMPETITION

Blessing Malinganiza

ZIMBABWE international midfielder, Marvelous Nakamba, says he is not worried by the arrival of Frenchman, Bou-bacar Kamara, at Aston Villa.

Kamara, who joined the Villains on a five-year deal, is coming as a direct competitor to the Warriors star.

Nakamba was a key member of Steve Gerrard’s men before he suffered a knee injury that kept him on the sidelines for four months.

The Zimbabwean, who is set to leave the country this weekend to join his teammates for pre-season, exclusively told H-Metro that competition was healthy.

“I think the competition will be tough, in every team in the Premier League and, generally in football, it is all about competition.

“So, it’s not something new, I think we have many players in the dressing room pushing each other and I’m also looking forward to playing with my new team mates. “Competition is always there and it always makes us become better players.

“The more the competition, the more we become better players and I’m looking forward to a new season, and improving, getting better and giving better service to my teammates.

“I need to go back and work hard in training and improve because there’s always room for improvement in football,” he said.

Aston Villa are set to begin their 2022/23 campaign with a game against Bournemouth, who are home to fellow Zimbabwean Jordan Zemura.

“It’s been a good break for me and I’m happy that I’ve managed to do what was in my plans during the holiday.

“I’m happy that the (youth) tournament was a success and it’s now back to business.

“I’m yet to join my team mates for pre-season training and I’m looking forward to that,” he said.

On fellow countryman, Zemura’s promotion into the EPL he said:

“I’m happy for him and it’s exciting that we will now have a fellow Zimbabwean in the league.

“It makes us happy and we will be putting our flag on the map. “I’m looking forward to the new season and very excited also.

“I’m very pleased with the chances that I got and I’m looking forward to keep on improving and giving everything that I can, working hard.”

Nakamba also spoke on his coach, whom he said has been an inspiration to him.

“He is someone who is a role model to most of us in Zimbabwe, including me.

“I watched him play when I was young and then to be coached by him is an inspiration for me and I am also excited that he is a leader, a winner.

“He is also someone who is honest with us players.

“I just want to keep on playing well and improve.”