It has not been easy, says Mushekwi

ZIMBABWE International Nyasha Mushekwi (NM) last year joined Belgian Jupiler League side KV Oostende on a one-year loan from South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. Paul Nyakazeya (PN) spoke to the striker who has been sidelined by a knee injury until the end of the season.

PN: How do you feel about the contribution you have made at KV Oostende since arriving 10 months ago?
NM: I would say my stay in Belgium has not really been the best. I did not have the best of seasons. First, there were problems with my loan move then now I am injured so it has been tough, but I am now settled.

PN: How is your team fairing in the league?
NM: The main objective is to stay in the top flight league and with few games left before the end of the season, we are in a good position to avoid relegation.

PN: How was the feeling when you left South Africa for Europe?
NM: Leaving South Africa to play in Europe had always been my goal and dream. It took longer than I expected but finally it happened and I am grateful to God.

PN: What is the biggest challenge you have faced at KV Oostende?
NM: I have played not more than 15 games and scored three goals. I have been played as a left wing which is not my preferred position so I have had to adjust and it has not been easy. I feel I could have scored more goals had I been at my preferred central striker position. However, the coach knows my preferred position and I am sure next season if I’m still here it will be a different situation.

PN: How did you get injured?
NM: I was trying to shoot the ball with my left foot during a league game against KV Mechelen and twisted my knee, tore some ligament and will be out of action for the remainder of the season.

PN: Do you follow the Zimbabwean soccer league?
NM: I have been following the game back home and what hurts me the most is that Caps United has not been able to beat Dynamos since I left. Last season they (Caps United) had a good run but I am sure this coming season Zimbabwe will witness a different Caps United.

PN: You must have good memories of Caps United?
NM: At Caps United I did not have a favourite teammate, because we had the best group at that time. We were all best friends and it was really nice, I miss it at times.

PN: What about Sundowns?
NM: At Sundowns there was (Elias) Pelembe and (Surprise) Moriri, those were my true brothers and still are. But I must say Method Mwanjali — at Caps United and Sundowns was a true leader and warrior though some people might want to expose him (for his involvement in the Asiagate scandal).

PN: What do you think about the current national team?
NM: I have not played for the Warriors in a long time but the squad has been doing well since Ian Gorowa took over. I am sure everything will come out right with time and the right people. Zimbabwe has got the best talent most probably in the southern African region.

PN: After the Asiagate scandal in which you were fingered but later absolved, do you think you will be available for the national team if called again?
NM: Oh yes, I wish to play for my country again, despite everything that has happened.

PN: Where do you see your future?
NM: Both teams (Sundowns and KV Oostende) have been in negotiations for long now, only that with the injury it leaves everything hanging. However, I am hoping to continue my career here in Europe but right now I do not have that key in my hands, but hopefully something positive will come up before next season.

PN: About the World Cup, which teams do you think will make it to the semi-finals?
NM: I think Brazil, Spain, Germany the fourth one will be a surprise team.

PN: Who do you think is the best player in the world at the moment?
NM: The best player in the world, I think the world voted and he was crowned (Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid) but I think there are other players who are over looked like (Eden) Hazard.

PN: And the best Warriors player ever?
NM: I would pick Peter Ndlovu, we all know what he did for our great nation and Warriors.

PN: When not playing football how do you spend your time?
NM: When not playing I am with my wife and my son, spending time together, it is really nice, to be with the whole family.

newsdesk@fingaz.co.zw