FCB Nyasa Big Bullets have provided early team news ahead of Thursday’s TNM Super League clash against Kamuzu Barracks at Civo Stadium.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, assistant coach Gilbert Chirwa offered updates on squad readiness following Sunday’s dramatic 4-3 victory over Civil Service United.
He spoke on the team’s defensive work, the title race pressure, squad availability, the goalkeeping situation, and key players returning from knocks sustained in recent matches.
Goalkeeping Update
Chirwa reiterated that Innocent Nyasulu remains an important part of the squad and continues to contribute strongly, despite occasional errors—something he noted as normal in football across all positions.
“Our first-choice goalkeeper is Innocent Nyasulu… Yes, he sometimes makes mistakes, but in-field players make mistakes as well,” he said.
The final decision on who starts in goal on Thursday will be made by the technical panel.
Chimbamba Training Ahead of Lilongwe Trip
Although Richard Chimbamba has not been part of the last five matchday squads, with Austin Chirambo on the bench in each of the past four fixtures, the goalkeeper has been training ahead of the trip to the capital.
When asked about his recent absence, Chirwa simply confirmed: “He is around.”
Final selection will depend on technical evaluation ahead of Thursday’s match.
Singo Remains a Central-Defence Option
Chirwa revealed that Yankho Singo continues to be assessed as a possible centre-back option, depending on squad needs and comparative performance levels during preparations.
“Sometimes we use Singo because we see him as a player who can play better in that position than some of the players,” he explained.
The head coach will make the final decision on whether Singo features in defence.
One Confirmed Absentee
Left-back Aaron Chilipa remains unavailable after sustaining an injury during training before the international break.
He also missed Sunday’s victory over Civil due to the same issue and will not be part of the squad that travels to Lilongwe.
No other injuries have been reported.
Salima Expected to Travel Despite Wrist Concern
Chikumbutso Salima, who was withdrawn late in Sunday’s match after picking up a wrist injury, is okay and expected to be available for selection.
“Salima is okay. He is part of the team,” Chirwa confirmed.
Team Focused Despite Recent Defensive Concerns
Chirwa acknowledged the defensive lapses witnessed in recent matches but expressed confidence in the team’s preparations.
“We sat down with the players, did a postmortem, and taught the boys how to defend properly,” he said.
“With the way we have prepared, we believe we are going to do good work for the team.”
