Lule excited with Flames role
South Africa-based former Flames forward Lawrence ‘Lule’ Waya says he is excited to be with the Malawi national football team as strikers trainer.
Waya jetted into the country on Sunday to join the Flames technical panel ahead of Malawi’s crucial 2019 Africa Cup of Nations away qualifier against Comoros.
Malawi has scored just one goal in the campaign, the lowest in Group B, prompting coach Ronny van Geneugden (RVG) to seek extra help.
Waya, regarded as one of the best forwards Malawi has ever produced, said he looks forward to imparting his knowledge to Flames strikers.
“I am very happy and honoured. I am happy that I will be able to impart my knowledge to the players. They [players] should expect to identify something new that will help them to improve their game and Malawi football as a whole,” he said.
RVG said he has invited the legend because he has great potential to impart his vast knowledge of the game to the Flames strikers as the team continues working on scoring.
The Flames regrouped yesterday in Chiwembe Township, Blantyre.
RVG has included new faces such as Azam Tigers striker Peter Katsonga and Silver Strikers winger Duncan Nyoni.
Moyale Barracks striker Gastin Simkonda also returns after an injury.
“Katsonga and Nyoni are playing good football for their clubs and deserve a chance to prove themselves. Gastin was already part of the setup and was out due to injury.”
Micium Mhone and Khuda Muyaba have also been recalled despite denouncing the national team on different occasions.
“Micium Mhone has been so consistent the whole season and deserves his place,” said RVG.
On Khuda, who announced retirement from national team, RVG said the player did not write an official communication to Football Association of Malawi (FAM).
“I am aware that he made comments on social media that he had quit the Flames. He officially did not communicate with us and as far as we are concerned, he has always been available for selection.
“He is in top form and deserves to be with the Flames. We engaged his club and he is more than willing to return. We will not shut door for any player who is performing well.
“Khuda is a young player who needs advice and guidance to grow as a reliable international player and we are ready to provide that mentorship to him,” he said.
The player has since apologised for his social media rants and promised to impress the Belgian coach.
