Van Damme resurfaces for last paycheque

Forgotten Zimbabwe defender, James Matola, is not contemplating retiring yet and says he still has a lot to offer as a player.

James Matola
James Matola

The former Dynamos and Buymore skipper resurfaced in South Africa recently where he is hopeful of signing for a side either in the Absa Premiership or the National First Division.

The award-winning centre back, nicknamed Van Damme because of his physical approach to the game, told The Zimbabwean that while it was premature to reveal the name of the club that had shown interest in his services, he was hopeful of signing before the end of the winter transfer window.

“At the moment I am training on my own and readying myself for trials with some sides that have expressed an interest. My aim is to remain in the Premiership or at least play in the NFD,” says the player, who turned 34 in May.

Matola last played at Absa Premiership campaigners Free State Stars a couple of seasons ago but was released after the parties could not agree terms following his recovery from an injury.

During his injury setback, the Harare-born defender had spent a stint on loan at sister club, Carara Kicks.

After leaving the Free State, Matola resurfaced in Thailand with the hope of securing an overseas move but a deal with Totact Football Club failed to materialize after he could not adapt to his new surroundings.

“It was a challenge out there. The environment was not ideal and there were communication problems,” Matola explained.

Back in South Africa, where he has previously played at former league champions, Superspsort United, he trained with third tier outfit, Batau FC, but he left them with the hope of securing a deal with a top team for what would probably be one last paycheque.

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