League return excites but…

SPORTS SUN writes CLUBS in the Zambian league have welcomed the resumption of the 2019/2020 season next month, though without fans, and have pledged adherence to health guidelines to ensure no spread of Covid-19 virus. In an interview, Power Dynamos club chief executive officer HappieMunkondya said the club was happy the league to be concluded on the pitch and not in the board room. Munkondya said the club would ensure the safety of the players, technical bench and all officials involved a top priority. “It’s a welcome announcement by President Edgar Lungu. The safety and health everyone is number one. We will strictly follow the health guidelines to ensure there is no risk of an eventual spread of the disease. We will wait on FAZ to give guidance on how the issue of playing away will be handled,” he said. Division Two North-Westen side Trident FC general secretary Jones Mwiza said the club has already started the disinfection of camp houses and players will be quarantined until they are cleared by health officials. “We are excited by the news because as the club we are looking to gain promotion to the National League. We are working closely with the Kalumbila Mine safety department to ensure that all is in place before players return. We are also looking for extra accommodation to maintain social distance .All players will under-go the screening process even before meeting as a group,” Mwiza said. And Napsa Stars Chief executive officer Greg Nsofu said they have already discussed with Woodlands Stadium on the measures to be put in place which include hand washing basins at all entry points. “We welcome the decision to resume the league and we will support the process. We had a discussion with stadium management on the need to have hand sanitisers placed at strategic places in the stadium and temp taken during every training session,” he said. Kabwe Youth Soccer Academy proprietor Mwansa Mutangamawelcomed the resumption but hoped there will be enough relief fund to enable teams without corporate sponsorship fulfil the fixtures. Mutangama also called on FAZ to give clubs adequate training period to avoid injuries. The 2019/20 league season was put on a halt on March 20 due to Covid-19. The Sun