Kinnah’s camp idea might hit a snag

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has said it will have to look at the diaries of Flames foreign-based players before it can approve national coach Kinnah Phiri’s proposal for a training camp in preparation for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad’s Sao next month.

Kinnah’s proposal seems likely to hit a snag as some players are set to return to their respective bases earlier than expected.

Kinnah said he would love the Flames to assemble briefly as the South African league—where the bulk of the players ply their trade—will only resume two weeks before the first leg against Chad—mid-February.

However, Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu said while the proposal will be discussed by the executive board at the weekend, the players’ diaries will be crucial in determining the camp.

“Since the festive season is now over, we have to find out when the players are supposed to return to their respective bases before we look at the proposal.

“Because although the league in South Africa will resume mid-February, there is a possibility that some players could leave earlier,” he said.

Nyamilandu also said even in the event that the executive board approves the proposal, FAM will first have to seek permission from the players’ clubs in case of eventualities.

“So, it is a bit tricky. The advantage we have, however, is that the game has been shifted to end of next month, which will give us an opportunity to look at the window when we can prepare as the earlier date was tight for us.

“The executive board will look into the issue. If it is approved, then we will make a recommendation to Sports Council for the team to go into camp. Otherwise, it is just timely, realising that the players are available,” Nyamilandu said.

Flames captain Peter Mponda hailed Kinnah for the proposal, but was quick to point out that some players are expected to return to their respective bases earlier.

“There are some players, like myself, who are supposed to leave this week to start preparations for the PSL second round whereas others will be preparing for CAF competitions.

“It could be because we did not do well in the first round and the coach wants to have ample time to tune-up,” he said.

Apart from Mponda and teammate Tawonga Chimodzi, other players expected to leave early are Chiukepo Msowoya, who is set to depart next Monday as Orlando Pirates will take part in the CAF Champions League.

Black Leopards duo of Harry Nyirenda and Dave Banda could also leave earlier as their team is set take part in the CAF Confederations Cup.

Already, Elvis Kafoteka and Moses Chavula are ruled out of the proposed camping. Kafoteka is in Asia hunting for a club whereas Chavula did not come for the holiday.