FORMER Dynamos coach Lloyd Mutasa is set to be appointed Caps United assistant coach if Taurai Mangwiro’s Asiagate ban appeal fails, it has emerged. REPORT BY HENRY MHARA SPORTS REPORTER
A reliable source told NewsDay Sport yesterday that Mutasa, who was recently appointed to the national senior men’s team, is waiting on the wings in the event Mangwiro’s appeal proves unsuccessful.
Mangwiro was the head coach at Caps United last season, but was later banned by Zifa for 10 years from all football activities over alleged involvement in the Asiagate match-fixing scandal. Mkhuphali Masuku, who was the assistant coach, took over in an acting capacity following the ban. Mangwiro has since appealed.
“The club is hoping that Mangwiro’s ban will fall away, but they are worried with the way Zifa is dragging its feet in solving the matter. Pre-season training has started and they are not sure how long it will take before Mangwiro is cleared. They need to plan for the new season. Plans are already in place to appoint Mkhuphali as a substantive coach and Lloyd will come in as the first assistant.”
The source added that Masuku’s contract had expired, but indications were that it would be renewed.
Mutasa is the Warriors assistant coach, but had been given an all-clear by Zifa to coach a local club.
Mutasa could not be reached for a comment, but a source said negotiations were on-going and he was comfortable working as an assistant. Caps United president Twine Phiri said: “I cannot discuss contract issues with the Press because they are purely confidential.
“We are still waiting for Mangwiro’s determination and we cannot engage anyone in the current situation. Mkhuphali is currently training the squad which means he is the coach and has a contract with us.”
