Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. HIGHLANDERS’ newly-appointed coach, Thabo Senong, has acknowledged the massive task ahead and insists that only a united effort can restore the Bulawayo giants to their former glory. Senong (45), who has signed a two-year contract to spearhead Bosso’s rebuilding exercise, arrived in the country from his native South Africa on Monday afternoon.
Speaking to Highlanders’ media on arrival, the former South Africa Under-20 mentor said he was eager to get started.
“I’m happy to be part of the family. I’m looking forward to meeting the players. I’m looking forward to meeting their passionate fans. Lots of work to be done. Looking forward to learn a lot from everyone who is involved in the club,” Senong said.
He added that the challenges facing the club require unity and constant engagement among all stakeholders.
“We are mindful of the challenge lying ahead of us, and we know that it can only be the collective that will manage such challenges. This is the reason why the technical team, management and players must sit down every day and find solutions,” Senong said.
Senong will be assisted by former Bosso player Mkhokheli Dube, who was part of the delegation that received him at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, alongside club chief executive officer Denzil Mnkandla.
“The CEO, Denzil, has been briefing me a lot, and I’ve also been in touch with coach Mkhokheli. We’ve been talking about the league because we’re not playing football in a vacuum. We are up against very good opponents,” Senong said.
“So, we are trying to know about the opponents, get to know about our team. Where we improve and what is it that we need to reinforce, to strengthen.”
The South African mentor has been tasked with guiding Highlanders to a top-six finish this season, as the club marks 100 years of existence, with junior development identified as a key pillar of the long-term strategy.
Mnkandla said the club was confident Senong’s experience would help steer Bosso in the right direction.
“He brings a wealth of grooming talent and also winning things with the Under-20s in South Africa. So we hope he can translate that experience into his work with us here and looking at also how we can revive our junior systems because that’s where primarily the first team is fit,” he said.
Highlanders have already lost two key players, with Mason Mushore joining Betway Premiership side AmaZulu in South Africa, while Melikhaya Ncube has crossed the city divide to Castle Lager Premier Soccer League returnees Bulawayo Chiefs.
Defender Andrew Mbeba has been linked with a move to champions Scottland, while McKinnon Mushore, who was on loan at Simba Bhora, has joined FC Platinum following the expiry of his contract with Bosso.
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