Vusumuzi Dube
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS appear to be quietly reshaping their midfield, moving to plug a potential headache by targeting the experienced trio of Mongameli “Smaller” Tshuma, Brian Jaravaza and Shepherd Mhlanga.
There has been no official announcement, but Bosso are believed to be closing in on the three as they look to steady the engine room ahead of the new campaign.
Mhlanga and Jaravaza are viewed as natural replacements in the holding role following the departures of Mason Mushore and Melikhaya Ncube.
Mhlanga has previously turned out for Chicken Inn and spent last season at FC Platinum, bringing top flight experience and tactical discipline.
Jaravaza is a product of the Highlanders development system and was with Bulawayo Chiefs last season. He has also captained Arenel in the top flight, a spell that sharpened his leadership credentials.
Tshuma, who was with Hwange, offers a different dimension. He brings creativity, flair and dynamism, qualities that have been missing in Highlanders’ midfield for some time.
Known for his dribbling ability, vision and explosive pace, Tshuma can operate centrally or out wide. His comfort on the ball makes him a potential crowd favourite, the kind of midfield creator Bosso supporters have long wanted, someone capable of unlocking stubborn defences.
The midfielder began his football journey at Mpumelelo FC in the Bulawayo Zifa junior league before progressing to Southern Region Division One sides Chiwororo FC and Zimbabwe Saints.
Affectionately nicknamed “Smaller” because of his slim frame, Tshuma has consistently shown intelligent positioning, precise distribution and composure on the ball. Those traits align neatly with incoming coach Thabo Senong’s structured, possession-based approach.
Meanwhile, former league top scorer Lynoth Chikuhwa has confirmed that his future has already been decided.
The striker, now a free agent after his release by Scottland FC, is strongly linked with a permanent move to Chicken Inn, with HardRock FC also reportedly interested.
“I have already settled for my next club. The announcement will be made soon, but for now I am just looking forward to the next campaign,” Chikuhwa told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
Scottland FC, the Mabvuku based side who stunned the football fraternity by winning the league title in their debut season, have already begun reshaping their squad. The club confirmed that Ghanaian midfielder Fredrick Ansa Botchway and Chikuhwa are among the first players released.
Off the field, Highlanders have confirmed the appointment of Thabo Senong as their new head coach, replacing Dutchman Pieter de Jongh, who departed at the end of last month.
Senong will be assisted by former Bosso player Mkhokheli Dube, with the rest of the technical team expected to be announced soon.
Online Reporter