Frank Willard’s impressive return from injury against Masters FC has earned praise from head coach Wedson Nyirenda, who believes the midfielder’s composure and quality will be a major boost to Bullets as the season gathers momentum.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Wedson Nyirenda has hailed Frank Willard’s attitude after the midfielder marked his first start of the 2026 season with an impressive performance in Monday’s 1-0 FDH Bank Premiership victory over Masters FC.
Handed his first start of the campaign in place of the injured Paul Master after spending more than two months on the sidelines through injury, Willard completed the full 90 minutes in an assured display as Bullets secured back-to-back league victories.
Nyirenda reserved special praise for the midfielder, describing his performance as outstanding before highlighting the attitude he displayed throughout his recovery.
“He was excellent. He was outstanding. I talked to him after the game and I was so satisfied with how he accounted for himself.”
Nyirenda’s praise reflected more than just Willard’s performance against Masters. It was recognition of a player who has developed through the Bullets Reserves, established himself in the first team and captained The People’s Team throughout the 2025 season before Blessings Mpokera took over the armband ahead of the current campaign.
Beyond the performance itself, the head coach said Willard’s attitude throughout his recovery embodied the standards he wants to see within his squad.
“For a player who has been out for such a long time to come in and play for 90 minutes in such a manner, I think that’s the kind of heart we want in this team.”
The Bullets head coach revealed that Willard’s commitment during his rehabilitation never wavered, despite the lengthy spell on the sidelines.
“Ever since I came, I have never seen him show a bad face. He has been training for that. He has been working for that. He is a gem. He showed it when he was on the pitch and I am sure in the next game, people will see what he will do to the opponents.”
Willard’s return not only gives Nyirenda another experienced option in midfield but also restores one of the squad’s key leaders ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. For the Bullets head coach, however, the midfielder’s greatest contribution may be the example he has set—showing that patience, hard work and the right attitude are rewarded.
