Mayuka itches for Lesotho

-mail.co.zm” class=”f”>Zambia Daily Mail by Online Editor on 5/22/13

By CECILIA ZULU SOUTHAMPTON and Zambia striker Emmanuel Mayuka (left) is gunning for a positive impression in Zambia’s World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Sudan next month. Mayuka has said that although the English Premier League season is over, his is not done yet as he hopes to play a role in Zambia’s bid to keep the World Cup qualification on track. “This season is far from over and I hope I will play a part in the game coming up against Lesotho,” said Mayuka on his Facebook page. In the last World Cup qualifier in March, Mayuka was an unused substitute in Zambia’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in Maseru. The Golden Boot winner at the 2012 Africa Cup finals said the 2012/13 season was all about learning and trying to find a mark in England. The Zambian forward has had a turbulent debut in England since joining the Saints last August after his successful spell at Swiss side BSC Young Boys. Mayuka said he has worked hard to lift the level of his game, adding that his game time improved in the season which closed last Sunday. Southampton finished 14th on the English Premiership log and the former Kabwe Warriors hit-man struggled to make a starting place. He has promised to give his best and continue donning the Saints next season. “This first season the premier league is over now. I believe this year was all about learning for me and finding my marks in the EPL (English Premier League),” Mayuka said. He made the switch to England when he was signed on by then Saints manager Nigel Adkins. When Mauricio Pachettino took over the reins in January this year, the Argentine urged Mayuka to up his game. “I have worked hard and my game time improved at the end of the season. I will give all my best to continue on this trend next year with the team,” Mayuka said.

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