Nomads turn to Osman

In a dramatic twist of events, Mighty Wanderers have agreed to re-engage seasoned tactician Yasin ‘Titch’ Osman to breathe a new lease of life in the blue side of town—the nomads.

Initially, the Nomads offered Azam Tigers mentor Leo Mpulula the job. But following further consultations, the Nomads appear to have changed plans after Mpulula said he could not commit himself until after the Under-17 national soccer team CAF Youth Championship preliminary engagements against Botswana.

The Nomads are set to meet Osman later today to agree on the terms.

Osman confirmed the news on Tuesday, but declined to say much until after today’s meeting.

“Where have you heard it from? Anyway, I cannot say much. They [Wanderers] phoned me a few days ago and we have agreed to meet tomorrow [today].

“So, I will only be in a position to comment after the meeting, but should we agree on the terms, then I am ready to assist them,” said Osman.

Asked if the Nomads had settled the outstanding dues that forced him to quit two years ago, Osman said: “That is one of the issues we will probably discuss because if we are to start a new chapter, then there is need to address outstanding issues.”

While Osman could not be drawn to disclose how much Wanderers owe him, our records show that he was demanding about K480 000 (about $1 920) at the time he stepped down.

Osman has had countless flirtations with the Nomads as coach dating to 1982.

“Mostly, it has been a case of fire-fighting and there have also been situations whereby I would come in for the part of the season,” said Osman.

Asked what new ideas he intends to bring at the troubled Wanderers, Osman said: “Look here, I cannot be talking about plans when we have not agreed anything with Wanderers.”

Nomads chairperson George Chamangwana confirmed that they are set to meet Osman today, but could not comment on whether they have shelved plans to engage Mpulula.

“What I can say is that we are exploring several options and I cannot, therefore, say whether we are going to engage Yasin or Leo,” said Chamangwana.

However, on Sunday, Wanderers general secretary David Kanyenda said they were likely to continue with the caretaker coaching panel comprising Felix Fosiko and Albert Mpinganjira until the end of the first round.

“We are looking at the next three matches and we are unlikely to hire another coach before the end of the first round,” said Kanyenda.

Mpulula said he could not be drawn to commit his future to Wanderers because his focus is currently on Tigers.