Swazi Observer

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BIRDS STAR SWISS MOVE STALLED

By SABELO GWEBU | 2021-01-18

SOCCER - NO one best described the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic other than Nhlanhla 'Jive' Nkosi when he said 'yet another missed opportunity'.

Due to COVID-19, the Mbabane Swallows attacking midfielder has been forced to shelve a once in a lifetime trial invitation with Switzerland side, Grasshopper Zurich FC.

In a letter in possession of Eswatini Observer Sports, the club's Sporting Director, Bernard Schuitceman, penned that, "we would like to invite Nkosi Nhlanhla for one week trial to our ground Letzigrund. The trial will start on January 5 and end January 13, 2021.

During this period Grasshopper Zurich FC will provide you (Nkosi) with accommodation and flight tickets.

We know your time is precious and we are grateful you shared some with us. We look forward to your participation on future football. We hope to see you soon."

Grasshopper Zurich FC are currently on top of the Swiss Challenge League, the second highest tier of the Switzerland football system.

Ten teams participate in the Swiss Challenge League with the winner promoted to the Super League.

The player's agent, and FIFA accredited Dingane 'Mendez' Maduma said Nkosi would now go for the trial at the end of the season.

"Because of COVID-19, both parties agreed that the player will now attend the assessment at the end of the season," Maduma said.

Compiling

Swallows Marketing and Communications Manager Mancoba Mabuza could not be drawn for comment on the matter at the time of compiling this report.

Four months ago, the former Moneni Pirates star had a trial with South Africa's Premier Soccer League side Baroka FC and was anticipated to return this month. The Baroka assessment is not possible currently as the DSTV Premiership is in full swing in neighbouring South Africa.

Grasshopper Zurich FC hold the records for winning the most championships, 27 titles and 19 Swiss Cups. It is the oldest football team in Zurich and maintains a substantial rivalry with FC Zurich

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