By Onward Gangata
FORMER Chapungu and national team forward Maxwell ‘Marhino’ Dube has added his voice to the growing calls for Washington Navaya to be included in the national team squad.
Navaya has been the best striker in the local league scoring 17 times for TelOne as well as chipping in with five assists.
But the forward has repeatedly been snubbed for national duty despite the warriors struggling for goals.
Many have questioned why national team coaches have not turned to the Gweru born striker.
Posting on his Facebook page, Dube, who also hails from Gweru’s Mtapa suburb like Navaya questioned the logic behind Navaya’s exclusion.
“It’s honestly unbelievable that Washington Navaya hasn’t received a national team call-up yet,” asked Dube.
“Week after week, he’s been a nightmare for defenders, currently leading the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League with 17 goals and only three games left to play.
“He’s not just scoring goals, he’s carrying his team with consistency, composure, and class.
“As things stand, he’s the clear favourite for the Golden Boot and a sure bet for the 11 Soccer Stars of the Year.
“If national team selection is based on current form and performance, then Washington deserves that Warriors jersey without question.”
A message of hope
The 2001 Soccer Star of the Year gave a message of hope to Navaya, urging him to keep focused and
“To my homeboy and former player from Marhino7 F.C. Juniors, I just want to say keep doing what you do best, scoring goals, let your boots do the talking, Remember, numbers don’t lie and the nation is watching,” Dube urged.
“Your time will come, and when it does, it will be worth the wait. Good luck in the remaining games, and may you bring that Golden Boot home!”
The national team is currently without a coach following the sacking of German, Michael Nees.
ZIFA are expected to announce the new coach this week, the coach is expected to lead the warriors at the AFCON tournament in December.
