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FORMER Young Warriors’ striker Wisdom Mtasa has gone AWOL from Bulawayo City FC, leaving the Premiership side to bank on less experienced forwards.
The nomadic Mtasa, who had previous stints with Dynamos, Caps United, Black Rhinos, FC Platinum and Manica Diamonds, has been absent for two weeks, leaving City to bank on former Under-20 striker Mgcini Sibanda and John Chinyerere.
City begin their Premiership comeback with an away trip to Ngezi Platinum Stars.
Philani ‘‘Beefy’’ Ncube, the City coach, said despite the absence of Mtasa, his charges are geared up for the start of the season.
“Our preparations have been going on well and we know we have a challenging start, but that’s what football is all about. We’ve been preparing for the Premiership and the Chibuku Super Cup gave us a glimpse of what to expect. If you look at how we finished the Chibuku Super Cup games, I’m sure you’ll agree that we had shown lots of improvement.
“Now we’re going to face Ngezi; a side that has experience, but I’m confident that my boys can hold their own and show that we are in the league to fight and stay. It’s games like these that define players’ abilities and I trust that whoever is given the responsibility will deliver,” said Ncube.
The former Premiership Coach of the Year has put his faith in youngsters to drive the Premiership returnees.
In the second-round of the Chibuku Super Cup, City lost once, 2-0 to Chicken Inn, drew 1-1 with Bulawayo Chiefs and 0-0 with Highlanders in their last group match.
Mtasa sat on the bench in the 0-0 draw against Highlanders.
“Wisdom is not in, but that doesn’t mean we are depleted. I’ve faith in my players and now is the time for them to repay that faith and lead us,” said Ncube.
City players expected to be part of the squad for the Ngezi trip include goalkeepers Bhekimpilo Ncube and Aaron Ngwenya, defenders Douglas Sibanda, Vincent Moyo, left-back Winfred Munorwei and Lewis Ncube.
Ex-Young Warriors utility player Leslie Lunga can also provide cover in defence and midfield.
Young defensive linkman Melikhaya Ncube, seasoned midfielder Welcome Ndiweni, former Caps United midfielder Crispen Machisi and play maker Alton Ndlovu are some of the players Beefy can rely on.
Youngsters that might be thrown into the fray include goalkeeper Manners Mangumba, who joined from army side Indlovu Iyanyathela, defenders Mpumelelo Bhebhe and King Khumalo, midfielders Elshama Farasi, Andre Nakai Siziba, Melikhaya, Ntobeko Moyo and Lunga.
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