By ADRIAN MWANZA –
CHOMA-based MTN-FAZ premier side Green Eagles have promised better performance this year following threats of funding withdrawal by sponsors Zambia National Service (ZNS) over their poor showing last season.
Eagles coach Justin Chinama said in an interview that his side would put in a much improved showing this year and that the players were alive to the challenge.
“I am confident that the squad will not disappoint the Command this season.
“They are aware that they should have done better and they should this year perform to expectations,” he said.
Chinama said he had faith in the team and was already in pre-season preparations in Kafue where the players were already being assessed for fitness and ability to deliver in the new season.
He said the team would make amends by putting up a splendid performance in the league and, if possible, even be crowned champions.
Recently, ZNS deputy commandant Alick Kamiji advised the team to improve their performance or risk losing their sponsorship.
Kamiji said ZNS was pumping a lot of money in the team and, therefore, wanted to see improved performance from the players.
As a way to bolster the squad, Chinama disclosed that Eagles had acquired four players spread across the four departments of goalkeeping, defence, midfield and a striking force.
He said that was in a bid to revamp the team’s fortunes and challenge for honours in the 2016 football season.
Chinama believes the new players will help raise the team’s profile and possibly guide the side to lifting the 2016 MTN-FAZ league title.
“We have four new players here, three still have negotiations on-going but we have acquired Kelvin Mwale to beef up our team as we prepare for the new season,” he said.