By CHINOYI CHIPULU
Former Chipolopolo midfielder Isaac Chansa has been appointed as National Division One City of Lusaka head coach replacing Serbian Veselin Jelusic.
Jelusic has separated mutually with the Woodlands Stadium based outfit.
Prior to his appointment Chansa, a 2012 Africa Cup of Nations winner, was physical trainer at the Ndola based Super Division side Forest Rangers.
City chairman Chomba Mumba confirmed the engagement of Chansa in a statement yesterday that the former international is the right person to build on the foundations laid in the league thus far.
“The club has brought in Chipolopolo AFCON champion as new head coach. City is in the strong position to gain promotion with twelve league games remaining. We believed Chansa is a right person to build on the foundations laid in the league thus far,” read part of the statement.
City general manager Justin Palmer said Jelusic’ contribution to the progress of City cannot be underestimated.
“Coach Vesko’s contribution to the progress of City during his tenure is commendable, he leaves us in a great position everyone at Yamoto wishes him all the best going forward,” Palmer said.
City are perched fifth with 38 points at par with fourth placed Chambishi.
Locally Chansa had stints at Power Dynamos, Zanaco and Forest Rangers.
He also featured for South African giants Orlando Pirates, Helsingborgs IF (Sweden), Henan Jianye, Shillong Lajong (China) Zakho, (Iraq), North East United FC (India) and Mitra Kukar (Indonesia) among other clubs abroad.
Chansa, who is also Chipolopolo physical trainer retired last year while at Forest before he was appointed physical trainer.
And Forest chairman Charles Kapoma has paid glowing tribute to Chansa for the services rendered to the club and has wished him success at City.
“Although sad about his departure, the club wishes to place on record it’s appreciation of his efforts. His dedication and positive influence to the players will always be appreciated,” he said.
Chansa was part of Tenant Chilumba-led technical bench’s achievement of qualifying for ABSA Cup and CAF Champions League for the first time.
The departure of Chansa leaves Chilumba with only Happy Sichikolo and Owen Kaposa as assistant coaches.
Chansa’s first game in charge will be against Zesco Shockers this weekend.
