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Lovemore Zigara Midlands Correspondent
GWERU-BASED Premiership outfit, Chapungu could soon engage nomadic coach Gishon “Gizha” Ntini as development coach. “Waru Waru” has ventured into junior development and have set up an academy at Suri Suri Airbase near Chegutu. The airmen have also elevated veteran striker Phillip Marufu to player-assistant coach in the new senior team structure which now has former FC Platinum and Shabanie Mine coach, Jairos Tapera as technical director.

Head coach John Nyikadzino, assistant coach Clement Mugari and team manager Dumisani Mupfudze complete the “Waru Waru” technical department.

Chapungu chief executive officer, Chris Levie Mukotekwa said Ntini had expressed willingness to join them but they were yet to negotiate his package.

“It’s true that Gishon Ntini expressed his willingness to join our club’s junior structures. I welcomed the idea because we want to come up with a solid youth development policy.

“I have already briefed the board of directors about the issue and they are yet to come back to me. We’re yet to talk to Gishon Ntini and if we agree terms, he will join us,” he said.

Mukotekwa announced that Marufu would be the second assistant player coach in the upcoming campaign and the Airforce of Zimbabwe which owns the Gweru outfit will pay for his coaching badges.

“If you look at it age is not on his side and therefore he cannot play football forever. For his loyal service to the club and his experience which saw him turning out for Dynamos and FC Lupopo in the DRC, we decided to reward him.

“We will pay for his Zifa coaching licences up to the Caf coaching certificates as per Airforce of Zimbabwe policy,” he said.

The BancEasy sponsored side is camped at Katanga Shooting Range near Kwekwe for its pre-season training and has set itself a target to finish in the top eight.