adminBruce Chikuni
WHEN the English Premier League released its fixtures for the 2022-23 season, Zimbabweans were euphoric.
Aston Villa were scheduled to get their season rolling with a match against newly promoted Bournemouth.
For the first time in the history of the EPL, two Zimbabweans were due to face off against each other in the world’s most followed league.
Warriors’ players Marvellous Nakamba and Jordan Zemura were set to face each other in that game.
But that all came to naught, as Nakamba was not included in the Villa matchday squad, but Zemura impressed on his EPL debut while his Warriors teammate watched from the terraces.
That was the beginning of Nakamba’s nightmarish campaign and he will forever curse the career threatening injury he picked up towards the end of last season.
His coach then, Steven Gerrard, who had showered him with praises, looked sideways when Nakamba needed him the most.
And, when Gerrard was replaced by Unai Emery, the Spanish coach made it clear that Nakamba was not a part of his plans.
It seems Zimbabweans still have a long wait before they can watch their countrymen going toe-to-toe in the EPL.
Sadly, it’s increasingly looking likely that there might be no Zimbabwe international in the EPL if Bournemouth are relegated.
Zemura’s game has drastically improved, but the Cherries are struggling perched second from bottom on the league table.
They have amassed 17 points from 21 fixtures and are just two points above league anchors, Southampton.
Nakamba was shipped out to Championship side Luton Town, who are also home to Warriors’ forward, Admiral Muskwe.
Luton are doing well and in contention for an EPL ticket.
They are currently fourth on the log and still within reach of pace setters, Burnley.
A return to Villa looks unlikely for Nakamba, unless there is a change of coach.
But Nakamba’s future is in his hands, as a good showing during his loan spell could probably reignite interest from EPL teams, such as Newcastle and Fulham, who previously expressed interest.
Online Reporter