Fadlu sends message to SA coaches

Although his stint at Russian Premier League outfit Lokomotiv Moscow was short-lived, coach Fadlu Davids says he would do it again, and has sent out a strong message to his fellow South African counterparts.

The ex-Orlando Pirates mentor jetted out some two weeks ago to join German coach Josef Zinnbauer on a new project in the Russian capital, but a string of poor results led to the entire technical team - including the sporting director, Thomas Zorn - being sacked not long after Davids had landed.

Speaking exclusively on Metro FM™s Sports Night Amplified with host Andile Ncube last night, the coach said he had not regrets.

Davids had worked closely before with Zinnbauer at Pirates prior to the latter quitting on the eve of the 2021/22 season.

œIf I sit back and reflect¦had I got the call now knowing, I would still go. What I got from going there was invaluable. It was extremely the youngest squad in the league by far. We were taking steps in the right direction, he reflected on his time at Lokomotiv, adding that his coaching credentials have truly open doors in Europe for his career.

Davids added that more of his Premier Soccer League colleagues should work on improving their coaching badges.

œI implore South African coaches, let™s go empower ourselves and get the highest coaching qualification possible because anyone can ask you to join them where they are. But you need the qualifications, he explained to Ncube.

œIf it wasn™t for my UEFA A license, I wouldn™t be able to sit on the bench at a European club. So, that is my message for South African coaches. Let us be prepared for when opportunities come outside our country.

Davids said he was not closing the door on returning to the PSL should there be vacancies, which looks highly likely with several coaches under the spotlight.

œI am open, but the discussions will have to be with my agent first. I have told him that he should only come to me when the talks are at an advanced stage, said the former Pirates head coach.

By: Mazola Molefe