Flames coaches seek extension of contracts

Talks have begun over possible extension of Flames coach Young Chimodzi and his right-hand man Jack Chamangwana’s two-year contracts, which end this July.

Chamangwana and Chimodzi were serving as regional football development officers for the South and the Centre respectively, but were recalled by FAM to fill vacancies in the Flames technical panel.

FAM chief executive officer SuzgoNyirenda confirmed in an interview during the week that talks were underway over the renewal of the contracts.

“I am at the centre of the discussions. We would like to extend them [contracts]. At the moment, it is just a matter of scrutinising some aspects of the contracts,” said Nyirenda.

FAM wants the duo for a longer stay as the Flames embark on 2015 Africa Cup of Nations preliminary round qualifiers next month with 2014 Cosafa Castle Cup also scheduled for this September.

Director of sports in the Ministry of Youth and Sports Jameson Ndalama on Wednesday could not be drawn into government’s commitment over the renewal of the coaches’ contracts.

“We know that we have coaches and that their contracts will need to be reviewed when they come to an end. But where there is a contract, there is an opportunity for renewal or not. It all depends on the people supervising them,” said Ndalama.

Chimodzi previously worked as Flames deputy coach to KinnahPhiri whereas Chamangwana was FAM technical director and Flames technical adviser before they were removed for EddingtoneNg’onamo, Ernest Mtawali and Patrick Mabedi who too were later removed.

FAM then hired on part-time Belgian Tom Saintfiet whose tenure ended last September.