Just a week after suspending coach Eliya Phiri, Mchinji Villa Football Club has appointed former Creck Sporting coach Joseph Kamwendo as their new head coach.
The NBS National First Division League side has struggled this season in the league, failing to register a single win in six matches and collecting only three points from three draws.
Kamwendo was officially unveiled during a ceremony held at Compass Lodge in Mchinji on Tuesday.
The former Flames player is expected to take charge of the team in their upcoming fixture against FOMO FC, scheduled for Saturday at Mchinji Community Ground.
Speaking at the unveiling event, Kamwendo said he was excited to help Villa achieve its goals.
“I am happy to be offered this opportunity. I know the team has set goals, and together with what I know, I believe I can help them achieve those objectives. Although the team has not done well in some aspects, I see a lot of potential here,” said Kamwendo.
He added that coaching a national division team after working in the TNM Super League is part of career growth as a young coach.
“People can say what they want, but for me, this is about building a career as a young coach,” he added.
Mchinji Villa Team Manager Yobe Dube said the club has high expectations and expressed confidence in Kamwendo’s ability to drive the team forward.
“We are a relatively new team, but we have big ambitions. With Kamwendo on board, we expect a lot in terms of performance,” said Dube.
On the departure of suspended coach Eliya Phiri, Dube confirmed that Phiri is no longer with the club.
“The suspended coach is no longer part of the team. We are just finalising a few formalities,” he added.
Zomba-based Red Lions currently top the table of the NBS Bank National Division League, while Villa sit second last of the 12-team league.
