Bruce Chikuni Sports
VETERAN sportscaster, Charles “CNN” Mabika, says he believes Tino Benza should be targeting European football.
Statistically, Tino is having his best season in the Castle Lager Premiership after scoring six goals and 10 assists with just two games to play for this campaign to end.
He had recorded his best figures last season where he scored four times to force his name into the league’s best XI players.
Tino also propelled the Students to the Chibuku Super Cup final where they lost to Bulawayo Chiefs.
He was the Golden Boot winner of the country’s flagship knockout competition last season and snatched the People’s Choice Best Player accolade.
“I have heard people saying Tino needs to move away from Herentals if he is entertaining any hopes of playing for the national team,” said Mabika.
“I personally feel the same, but if he is to make that decision, it should not be a local club but a European side.
“And, I also feel that, anyone who is in charge of Tino must be busy looking for a Championship or third tier team in England because I’m confident that he is good enough and he can play.”
He feels Tino needs another campaign in the PSL.
“He has good frame, speed, technique, and importantly he is not selfish. I have seen him providing the chances than scoring in most games that I have seen him in action.
“I will consider him a wasted talent if his handlers fail to get him a club in England, he has what it takes to play there or even in France.
“It will be still okay if they still want him to continue for the next six months, it will also minimise his chances of playing for the Warriors because I believe at this moment he deserves to be part and parcel of the national team.”
Tino says the Students remain hopeful of a top four finish although they are now four points off the slot currently occupied by Highlanders.
“It’s been a good season for us, I would also say we are a bit disappointed because last season we reached the Chibuku Super Cup final but this season we have nothing to show.
“We are now targeting a top four finish and I believe it’s within our reach, we just have to get busy until we get it done.
“Individually, I think I have done better as compared to other seasons, statistically, and I would want to credit it to team work.”