Chiukepo, Dave Banda recalled
Out-of-favour burly forward Chiukepo Msowoya and midfield workhorse Dave Banda have been recalled into the Flames.
The two will join the squad in the countdown to the forthcoming 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Namibia’s Brave Warriors and Kenya’s Harambee Stars on June 5 and 12 respectively.
Football Association of Malawi (FAM) commercial and public relations manager Casper Jangale and Flames caretaker coach Eddington Ng’onamo confirmed the recall of the two on Tuesday.
While Jangale claimed the two have been recalled following impressive performances at their respective clubs, Ng’onamo said they have been drafted in after noting some shortfalls in the Flames during the friendly game against Zimbabwe.
“Both Chiukepo and Dave have displayed eye-catching performances of late, which merited national team consideration. So, they have been called to beef up the squad,” said Jangale.
He said Dave will join the squad today [Wednesday] while Chiukepo is expected to arrive in the countryThursday, together with Moses Chavula.
On his part, Ng’onamo said: “They have been drafted into the squad because we noted some weak areas during the Zimbabwe game. But let me stress here that their inclusion will not be automatic, they will have to make an impression.”
Banda, who last played for the Flames in the friendly match against South Africa last year, was dropped from the squad on disciplinary grounds.
He was first dropped from the squad that travelled to Uganda for the Cecafa tournament, but was forgiven after apologising to the coaching panel, then headed by Kinnah Phiri.
Chiukepo last played in a 2013 World Cup qualifier against Ghana’s Black Stars, as a substitute.
Chiukepo said he was delighted at being recalled.
“Now, that I am enjoying game time, I will work hard to make it into the final squad. As I said, I am hungry to make an impression,” said Chiukepo.
Banda, who has been starring for his new club Kamuzu Barracks, could not be reached for comment.
Meanwhile, Ng’onamo has asked FAM to help in seeking an early release of captain Joseph Kamwendo. The coach wants him to come earlier than next Monday—just two days before the game.
Chiukepo’s Liga Maculmana have a CAF Confederations Cup match against TP Mazembe over the weekend.
In a related development, South Africa-based forward Esau Kanyenda, midfielder Robert Ng’ambi and defender Harry Nyirenda have arrived in the country and are expected to join the squad tomorrow(Thursdday).
Limbikani Mzava and Robin Ngalande arrived last week while James Sangala, Jimmy Zakazaka, Peter Wadabwa and Tawonga Chimodzi are expected later in the week.
