Goalkeeper Mwenya Chibwe says he is humbled to have been handed a Chipolopolo call-up despite being clubless since January.
The South African-born goalkeeper, who was released by Baroka FC in January, received a surprise call-up for June’s 2023 AFCON qualifiers against Cote d’Ivoire and Comoros.
“For me, I can say God is great. I wasn’t really that active but a call-up means my hard work has been noticed,” Chibwe said.
Chibwe could not sign with a new club after he was released by Baroka following the late issuing of his release papers by the South African club.
“And God is always there for me. I feel it is an opportunity to grab because since I am here I will most probably get offers and I know there will be,” Chibwe said.
“So I am totally honoured and happy to be here and I really appreciate it.”
Chibwe, whose father is Zambian, was the first player naturalized to feature for Chipolopolo.
He added that he was excited to see defender Frankie Musonda of Scottish Championship club Raith Rovers also follow in his footsteps.
“The decision that I took was final and I love it and I am enjoying it so if there are more like me and Frankie and them just follow your heart,” Chibwe said.
“I was even talking to Frankie and he was telling me he can’t wait to play at home to make the fans happy.”
Chibwe and Frankies travelled with Chipolopolo on Thursday from Lusaka to Ghana where Chipolopolo has set up a week-long training camp in Accra ahead of their match against Cote d’Ivoire on June 3.
Chipolopolo will leave Accra for Abidjan on June 1.
