National team coach Sven Vandenbroeck has revealed that he sent away two national team players who displayed lack of discipline during training.
At a media briefing yesterday, the Chipolopolo coach explained that the discipline issue involved one unnamed player who was sent away for reporting to camp after the specified time, and another one who did not show up at all.
Sven also mentioned that he Simon Silwimba was injured during training and was replaced by Solomon Sakala
Meanwhile, the coach underscored the importance of a compact defence in the national team as the squad prepares to conclude the AFCON qualifier against Namibia in September.
He said in the three camps held where a total number of 40 players were observed, the midfield and the strikers were alternating while the defence line was maintained.
“Most of the players in Zambia are very technical and work with 4-2-2 formation that relies on the striking abilities of two tall wingers. I have also observed that Zambia has few good strikers. I wanted to see that changed but minus making notable changes in the back line,” explained Sven.
The Belgian also mentioned he had watched a number of local games in the super league and had had a good observation of the local players. He however bemoaned that local players were not regarded as professionals.
“The mindset among people should change. Playing abroad is not the only thing that makes a player professional. Even local players are professionals because they live off it (footbal) and deserve the professional respect too,” said Sven.
Meanwhile, coach Sven expressed his need to watch more international games
“I have only watched the game between Orlando Pirates against TP Mazembe that was played here in Zambia. I need to watch more foreign based players play and make a good judgment. I will not get all the local players that I have had in camp but a combination of those abroad. Others are being prepared for other cups like COSAFA because I’m also focusing on the long term aspect of the national. It is the reason I called 29 players that I would narrow down to 23. We have AFCON to qualify for and that is the focus as of now,” said Sven.
