SOCCER – Wanderers have turned to the Nigerian market in a bid to arrest a worrying slide in the MTN Premier League, with three Nigerian internationals currently undergoing assessment ahead of the January transfer window deadline.
The trio, aged between 23 and 25, arrived in the country on Wednesday, with the trip facilitated by the club’s legal adviser Bongani ‘Bhanyaza’ Mdluli. Sources within the Wanderers camp say the players — a defender, a midfielder and a striker — have impressed during training sessions under head coach Zenzele ‘Ace’ Dlamini.
“They are from a Nigerian academy and have shown glimpses of quality. What stands out is their age profile and energy, which is exactly what the team needs at the moment,” said a source close to the club.
Wanderers Communications Manager Sandile ‘Ntofo’ Dlamini confirmed the developments, saying the technical team would make the final call.
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“We have three internationals undergoing assessments. We are waiting for the coaches’ recommendations before any deal is concluded,” he said.
The hub giants have also strengthened locally, securing the services of defender Muhle Siyaya from MulaSport National First Division side Red Rhinos, while left-back Mthunzi ‘Chippa’ Motsa is training with the team following his release by Mbabane Swallows.
The urgency behind the recruitment drive is evident. Wanderers are rooted to the bottom of the MTN Premier League log with just seven points from 16 matches, having managed only one win all season. Their goal difference of minus 23 highlights struggles at both ends of the pitch.
Recent results have compounded the pressure, including a 2–0 defeat to Rangers in Week 16, a heavy 4–0 loss to Young Buffaloes in Week 15 and a 3–2 setback against Royal Leopards in Week 14.
At the top of the table, Young Buffaloes and Nsingizini Hotspurs are locked on 32 points, setting a blistering pace, while Manzini Sea Birds remain firmly in the title conversation on 28 points.
At the other end, the relegation battle is intensifying, with Ubombo Sugar, Amawele and Sisonkhe also looking over their shoulders.
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Against this backdrop, Wanderers face another stern test today when they take on Madlenya in an Ingwenyama Cup last-32 clash at Ka-Langa Technical Centre.
For ‘Ace’s men, the cup offers both a distraction and an opportunity for redemption, but their league form suggests reinforcements cannot come soon enough if they are to avoid an unthinkable drop.
