Mukudzei Chingwere Midlands Bureau
CHAMPIONS FC Platinum have described one of their new recruits, Lawrence Mhlanga as the best central defender in the country, suggesting that they are looking to build their rearguard around the former Chicken Inn man.

Mhlanga was sidelined for full season last year as he had to contend with a contractual brawl with the Gamecocks.

The big defender who was a member of the Warriors squad at the CHAN tournament in Rwanda in 2016, now set for a return to action after FC Platinum included him in their Champions League 28 men squad.

FC Platinum also included a number of players with continental experience like Liberty Chakoroma, Gift Bello and Rahman Kutsanzira.

Some of his admirers have nicknamed Mhlanga, Dazzy, after likening some of his defensive qualities to those of 2002 Soccer Star of the Year Dazzy Kapenya.

But it is the evaluation he got from FC Platinum assistant coach Lizwe Sweswe as he prepares for life at the Zvishavane miners. Sweswe said although Mhlanga’s game will have been affected heavily by long spells on the sidelines he remains as one of the best the country has locally.

“In football it is not important to be inactive for a very long time, you need to be continuously available for selection and have some game time so that you remain a fit.

“His game might have dropped a bit because he was inactive but with his current form he is still one of the best defenders in the country.

“His communication, positioning, acceleration, he can jump and good in the air also good on winning back possession.

“What you expect to see in a central defender you find it in Lawrence though there is always room for improvement, so we are happy that he will be available for selection.

It is important not only for the club (FC Platinum) but the country as a whole since he is a Warriors defender,” said Sweswe.

Despite huge praise from the technical department Mhlanga will have to fight for his place in the champions side that gave away very little last season.

FC Platinum built their successful league triumph on the back of a frugal back-line which conceded only 15 goals the whole season, and fears were that the miners will no longer be as desperate to have him on their books.

The miners are also hoping to have a solid defence as they embark on their Champions League campaign with a mission to at least qualify for the group stage.

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