Chitoshi Chinga explains why he won't disappoint if called by Avram Grant

Chitoshi Chinga has become an integral member of the Rangers backline and has helped his side to four clean sheets this season.

The 25-year-old center-back has also scored one goal for the Ndola side, where he has bagged the Player of the Month award for September.

Speaking to BolaNews, Chinga, who also plays as a defensive midfielder, stated that he is working hard at the club level so that he can contest for a place on the national team.

“This season has been good so far,” Chinga said. “I feel like I have started on a high note and I’m improving in each game that I play.”

Chitoshi Chinga in action for Forest Rangers. (Photo via Forest Rangers media)

Known for his hard-tackling and physically imposing approach, the former Lumwana Radiants player said one of his targets before the end of the season is to play for the senior national team.

“My driving force is the targets that I set at the start of every season, so I’m working towards that [playing for the national team],” he said.

Chinga promises not to disappoint if given a chance

Following impressive performances, a section of fans feel Chinga has proven himself on the local front and can enhance the competition on the national team.

In response, the Fole Malembe defender is confident he wouldn’t let the nation down if given a chance.

“When fans believe in you, it makes one work harder. When given a chance, I can do it for our country and ensure I don’t disappoint the nation, coaches, and fans who believe that I can do it for our country,” Chinga said.

Currently, the center-back partnership has been between China-based towering defender Stopilla Sunzu and Frankie Musonda of AYR United in Scotland.

Avram Grant (In an orange shirt) with his assistants and players during training at Khalifa bin Zayed stadium complex. (Picture via FAZ media) — Avram Grant (in an orange shirt) with his assistants and players during training at the Khalifa bin Zayed stadium complex. (Picture via FAZ media)

In the last friendly matches against Egypt and Uganda, Grant paired Sunzu with Dominic Chanda as Musonfa was out with an injury.

Other notable contestants for the center-back position include Tandi Mwape and Aime Mabika.

However, Chinga says he is equal to the task and can challenge for a place in central defense if summoned by the bench.

“My biggest ambition is to be part of the team that will go and help the country reach greater heights,” he said.

This week, Chipolopolo head coach Avram Grant is expected to name his squad for the upcoming back-to-back 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Congo Brazzaville and Niger.