Bruce Chikuni
SOUTH African forward, Lyle Foster became the 15th Mzansi’s player to feature in English Premier League when his Burnley side lost 0-3 to Manchester City in Friday’s season opener.
Five years ago, Foster shared the COSAFA Under-20 Golden Boot with Ngezi Platinum’s Delic Murimba after netting five times apiece.
Foster (22) has already played in South Africa, France, Belgium and Portugal.
Murimba is still around and waiting for a breakthrough beyond our borders.
Bhekithemba Ndlovu, who was in charge of the Young Warriors, feels the lack of continuity has stalled the progress of the domestic players.
“It was a good squad and you can see that the majority of that crop have grown to become respected names in the PSL.
“But, they have all struggled to play for the Warriors and it’s really sad because as a country we were supposed to embrace these youngsters but they were totally ignored.
“The difference is South Africa saw what Foster did and guided him while Murimba was overlooked,” said Ndlovu.
Aces Youth Academy former coach, Expense Chitukutuku, said:
“Murimba’s case is a reflection of how unprepared we are as a country to take promising talent to the next level.
“It’s very difficult to polish a raw player but, after enduring that long process, someone needs to step up to help such players.
“These youngsters need exposure and it’s a privilege that we have the ZIFA Village, which we are not utilising properly.
“I believe we can qualify for the World Cup if we can identify and keep promising youngsters at this place for a good five-year period.”
Ngezi Platinum Stars developmental coach, Kifton Kadurira, helped more than 30 players to qualify to play in the PSL.
“We have talent everywhere in Zimbabwe but we lack people who are willing to go to the extremes to promote talent.
“I have worked with Murimba, he is a good striker and I think it’s up to him to find inspiration from Foster because he is still young to give up on his European dream.”