Flames coach Ernest Mtawali has described his trip to South Africa as fruitful.
Among other things, Mtawali travelled to the rainbow nation to assess some players, engage coaches of teams that have Malawian players ahead of next month’s double 2017 Africa cup of Nations (Afcon) double qualifier against Guinea’s Sylli Nationale.
“The drawback is that some of the players are not playing for various reasons and for others, it is beyond their control
“I have spoken to their respective coaches to consider releasing them early so that the join us for the preparations,” said Mtawali.
He cited Gerald Phiri Jnr, Robin Ngalande and Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango as some of the players he would wish to join camp early.
“For Gerald and Gabadinho they are more or less straightforward issues since they cannot player due to technicalities, but still the ball is in their clubs’ court while for Robin, it is a bit tricky as he is available for selection,” he said.
Mtawali said during the trip he was able to watch Gabadinho and captain Limbikani Mzava in action.
“It is unfortunate that Gaba’s contract had to be terminated premature due to circumstances, otherwise he was picking up.”
He also said Robert Ng’ambi is doing well for Platinum Stars.
“But for players such as Harry Nyirenda and Atusaye [Nyondo], it is a bit tricky as they are not playing,” said Mtawali.
The coach said he will soon sit down with backroom staff to choose which foreign-based players should be considered for the game.
