Football

MBABANE – Despite an ongoing battle for control of the club, one faction of Mbabane Swallows is not waiting for the dust to settle.

Instead, Mbabane Swallows Pty Ltd is already on the prowl, allegedly recruiting players ahead of the new season.

Swallows Pty Ltd is the faction that is still fighting to regain control of the team after Princess Lungile stepped down as boss in 2019.

Currently, the club is run by Swallows Football Club (FC), who have stated that they are running the team as an association, as opposed to a company like the opposing group.

However, with less than 10 days until the new season’s kick-off and still not in full control of the club, the Pty Ltd faction has disclosed that they have already recruited some players who can join the team if Swallows FC surrenders control.

This was disclosed by Chairman Bongani Dlamini, who said they are ready in all aspects to run the team, as they have been preparing since last season.

Dlamini told this publication that they have a mix of players, some being legendary players and others who left the club earlier this year when the team’s financial situation became dire. A dire financial situation forced the incumbent leadership to restructure, offloading high-value players to manage the wage bill.

Although reluctant to reveal names, he made an example of one former ‘Birds’ fan favourite who is said to have agreed to personal terms with them but is closely monitoring the situation.

The chairman further said the player is reluctant to commit to any other team with the hope that they will win control of the club.

Asked whether they are bringing a totally new squad of players, Dlamini responded to the negative, as the team currently boast players they would inherit.  However, it is also understood that there are no contracts that are being signed by the team and players being scouted.

Dlamini also mentioned that part of their readiness also includes the application for a licence from the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) as well as a request to use Somhlolo National Stadium as a home ground from the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs.

Full article available in our publication.

Mbabane Swallows full-back Newman Philiso clears the ball away from Mbabane Highlanders AM’s Kenneth Moloto (on the ground) during last season’s Mbabane derby. Reports suggest Swallows might have two squads run by two factions. (Pic: File)