Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THREE players have been released from the Warriors’ provisional squad following medical assessments that ruled them out of this month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco.
Scotland-based striker Tymon Machope, Chicken Inn captain Xolani Ndlovu and Highlanders defender Andrew Mbeba were discharged from camp after team medics confirmed they were carrying injuries that could compromise their long-term fitness.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) said the decision was taken to ensure the affected players receive appropriate recovery time rather than risk aggravating their conditions during the intensive pre-tournament programme.
Their withdrawal follows that of MWOS midfielder Abubakar Moffat, who pulled out on Monday due to injury. He has since been replaced by Portugal-based youngster Cobert Chimedza of AC Marinhense, who becomes the latest overseas-based player to join the squad.
Head coach Marian Mario Marinica initially named a 51-member provisional squad, which will be progressively trimmed before the team departs for Morocco. The technical department is continuing to assess fitness and form as part of its final squad selection process.
