Former Chipolopolo Boys striker Collins Mbesuma has urged his former side, Roan United, to reclaim their top spot in the 2025-26 National League campaign.

Roan United are third placed with 43 points from 23 matches played, five points behind league leaders Makeni All Stars.

The Luanshya-based side has won 12 games, drawn seven, and lost four games.

Roan United had started the season on a high note following their impressive run in the first round of the season.

Mbesuma played for Roan United during the period 2003-2004, making 25 appearances with 11 goals.

After impressing for the Luanshya-based side, Mbesuma attracted interest from South African giants Kaizer Chiefs and joined them in 2004.

Speaking to Bolanews exclusively, Mbesuma encouraged his former club to pull up their socks.

“Roan needs to put more effort” – Mbesuma.

“They just have to regroup and stay focused. When you start well and you are flying, you become a target; each and every team coming to face you is going to bring the A game. Roan United has been very strong from the beginning, so now other teams make sure they play their best game to beat Roan United,” he said.

“So now they have to gear up where they started; now they have to put in more effort like never before because every team they will meet will bring the A game because they are facing Roan United,” added Mbesuma.

“Roan United have to pull up their socks; they have to double their effort, especially in the second round of the league; they have to pull up their socks. We are still behind them. They should not rely on first-round results; they should maintain the rhythm they started with,” he noted.

Roan United will face Lumwana Radiants in their Week 24 fixture on Saturday at Lumwana grounds.

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