TNM Super League Champions Nyasa Big Bullets will not immediately release striker Patrick Phiri for trials in South Africa.
Local Agent Prince Jere had written Bullets asking for Phiri’s release to Ajax Cape Town and an undisclosed club in eSwatini.
Bullets Chief Administrative Officer, Albert Chigoga, said his club is cautious about the move as Jere had not been clear on the teams that are looking for Phiri’s services.
Chigoga said within 24 hours, the agent had named two different clubs that he insists are interested in the player.
“We are just taking precautionary measures. We need to be sure about what is happening to our player. Bullets would like to be sure about the actual club which wants to sign Phiri.
“The agent had indeed approached us but there are some inconsistencies in his story and management cannot release now until he shows us that he [the agent] shows seriousness,” he said.
But Jere maintained that he has genuine connections with clubs outside the country and insisted that there is an opening for Phiri.
“I have been following Phiri’s progress for some time and I am convinced that this is a player who is good enough to play in South Africa or eSwatini. I know how to take care of my players and what I am doing is good for the player,” he said.
Since the 2019 season came to an end last month, several Malawian players have been attending trials at clubs in countries such as Mozambique, South Africa, Georgia and Moldova.
Peter Fote is a Sports Journalist with huge experience in radio and Television reporting, production and presentation. He once worked with Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and is currently working for Times Media Group.