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Pasuwa courts Darikwa, Bonne

Sport
WARRIORS coach, Kalisto Pasuwa has revived his interest in English Premier League club Burnley defender, Tendayi Darikwa, as he studies his options in a bid to assemble the strongest possible squad for the 2017 African Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals to be held in Gabon in the new year.

WARRIORS coach, Kalisto Pasuwa has revived his interest in English Premier League club Burnley defender, Tendayi Darikwa, as he studies his options in a bid to assemble the strongest possible squad for the 2017 African Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals to be held in Gabon in the new year.

BY TAWANDA TAFIRENYIKA

Macauley Miles Bonne (left) and Tendai David Darikwa (right)
Macauley Miles Bonne (left) and Tendai David Darikwa (right)

Darikwa has previously been called to the national team, but turned down the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe, with reports suggesting he has aspirations to play for England.

But after failing to hold a first team spot at Burnley so far this season, the talented right-back, who can also play in midfield, has seen his chances of playing for England diminish.

The 24-year-old still awaits his Premier League debut, with a start in Burnley’s 1-0 defeat to Accrington in the League Cup representing his only run-out of the campaign so far.

It has been a different experience for Darikwa, who was used to consistent action since establishing himself at the then League Two side Chesterfield during the 2012/2013.

And with the Warriors having qualified for the continent’s greatest football showcase for the first time in a decade, the lure of playing on such a grand occasion may be too good to resist for Darikwa.

NewsDay Sport has learnt that Pasuwa has included him in the provisional squad ahead of the January tournament.

Also included is Colchester United forward, McCauley Bonne, who has previously played for the Warriors in an international friendly against Morocco.

The two could play a part when the Warriors face Tanzania in a warm-up game on November 13, if they heed the call. The Warriors coach wants to have a closer look at Darikwa ahead of the tournament.

Ngezi Platinum goalkeeper, Nelson Chadya is also in contention for a place in the team.

Zifa have secured two international friendly matches against Zambia and Tanzania and with the match against Zambia falling outside the Fifa calendar for international matches, Pasuwa will only be able to call his foreign-based stars for the clash against the latter.

The Warriors gaffer is expected to announce the squad today.

Egypt and Jamaica have also expressed interest in playing the Warriors.