Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza, Zimpapers Sports Hub
New FC Platinum coach Thabo Senong has acknowledged the scale of the task awaiting him after taking charge of the struggling former Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions for the final nine matches of the season.
The South African replaces Joel Luphahla, who was dismissed this week following a difficult campaign in which the platinum miners collected 31 points from their opening 25 matches, their worst return at that stage of a season since winning their first league title in 2017.
Senong believes significant work is required to steer the Zvishavane side away from the lower reaches of the table.
“We have nine league matches remaining, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a big club,” said Senong.
“I am humbled to have joined FC Platinum, but we are mindful of the responsibility that comes with representing the club. The league is highly competitive, and the team is not in a good position at the moment, so there is a lot of work ahead of us.”
Senong, who previously coached the South African Under-20 national team and the Lesotho senior national side, said his immediate focus would be improving the players and restoring the team’s competitiveness.
“I met the players for the first time today and was encouraged by the reception I received from everyone at the club. Some members of the technical team are also coming in to help us improve the side,” said Senong.
“As coaches, we want to be on the pitch because our purpose is to improve players individually and help teams develop collectively. I was therefore humbled and excited to receive this opportunity.”
The appointment marks Senong’s latest coaching assignment outside South Africa. He said limited opportunities at home had encouraged South African coaches to become more flexible and seek employment elsewhere on the continent.
“South Africa has one of the best coach-education systems on the continent. As South African coaches, we must be adaptable and willing to contribute in other countries, particularly at clubs that are committed to progressing,” said Senong.
