Grant denies Fashion Sakala’s assertions, calling them lies.
Grant denies Fashion Sakala’s assertions, calling them lies.
Chipolopolo Boys head coach Avram Grant has vehemently denied the allegations made by forward Fashion Sakala regarding his team selection process, dismissing them as baseless accusations.
Speaking during a press conference at Football House, Grant expressed astonishment at Sakala’s claims, stating that in his 51-year coaching career, he had never encountered such falsehoods from a player who was not selected for the team.
Grant clarified that the rift with Sakala originated during the AFCON, prior to the Morocco match. Throughout his extensive career, Grant emphasized that all his decisions had been thoroughly professional, highlighting past instances where notable players like Shevchenko and Andre Ayew had expressed discontent but never resorted to fabrications.
Detailing the events leading to the fallout with Sakala, Grant explained that his decision to play Lameck Banda over Sakala against Morocco was based on performance and attitude during training sessions.
Despite attempts to communicate his concerns to Sakala, the player reacted negatively, refusing to acknowledge his shortcomings and instead making unfounded accusations against Grant.
Grant stressed the importance of maintaining team harmony and equality among players, noting that Sakala’s behavior jeopardized these principles.
While expressing willingness to reconcile if Sakala acknowledges his mistake and commits to the team’s values, Grant emphasized that integrity and professionalism were non-negotiable aspects of his coaching philosophy.
Responding to allegations of influencing player selection through his agent, Grant adamantly refuted any external influence on his decisions, asserting that all selections were made independently.
He expressed readiness to cooperate with any inquiry into the matter, reaffirming his commitment to transparency and fairness.
Grant’s stance on player selection has come under scrutiny following the leaked phone conversation involving Fashion Sakala Jr., prompting the Football Association to initiate an inquiry.
Grant reiterated his willingness to cooperate with the Ethics Committee, maintaining his integrity amidst the controversy.
