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FORMER Dynamos midfielder Wonder Sithole is excited by the prospect of playing in Africa again this year after switching to new boys How Mine who will be representing Zimbabwe in the Confederation Cup. The midfielder is among the several signings made by the Bulawayo side as they sought to beef up their squad for the tournament which begins early next month.
The former Masvingo United and DeMbare player spent the last season at Buffaloes where he sought to resuscitate his career after recovering from a knee injury that ended his stay at the Harare giants prematurely.
Sithole, who played a vital part for DeMbare during the 2010 and 2011 campaigns, is one of the experienced players in the How Mine squad that was submitted to Caf during the week.
“It’s always great to be playing in Africa and facing some of those big teams on the continent. I have been in this situation two or three times before and I don’t think it’s something that should frighten. It’s the same old football, with the same rules,” said Sithole.
“How Mine is a fairly new club and that they are playing in the Confederation Cup tournament is something that should be applauded.
Personally, my aim this year is to see the club doing well in Africa and obviously to remain competitive in the domestic league and probably win some silverware,” said Sithole.
“It’s all about a good pre-season. It’s very important for any team to prepare well and for the players to then play according to the coach’s instruction.
“I understand there is quite a number of experienced players in that squad. That in itself is a big plus because it makes it easier for some of the youngsters to play at the high level. That have to learn from someone.”
How Mine made 12 additions to their squad after registering players such as George Magariro, James Chitereki, Tendai Ngulube, Marvel Samaneka, Nicholas Alifandika, Kuda Musharu and Courage Denias.
But they are still negotiating with the clubs where some of these players were contracted to get clearances.
The Bulawayo side made a reputation as giant-killers in their maiden season after beating the traditional big three Dynamos, Caps United and Highlanders and will be looking to make an impression in the Confederation Cup.
They have retained most of the players who are also experienced in the continent with Hebert Dick, Nyasha Mukumbi, Gilbert Banda and goalkeeper Ephraim Mazarura making the core.
Zimbabwe’s other representative in the Caf inter-club competitions, Dynamos, were scheduled to resume their Champions league preparations yesterday. DeMbare continued training when the season ended but had to give the players a break for the festive holidays.
Online Reporter