Brighton and Hove Albion FC midfielder Enock Mwepu, who is also the Zambia national team captain was labelled ‘unpatriotic’ after the England-based star pulled out of last Friday and tonight’s Zambia vs Mali friendly match due to an illness.
However, he has come out strongly to condemn those questioning his patriotism despite the situation being beyond his control as he fell ill after arriving in Bamako, the host city for the two friendly matches.
“My inability to play in the two international friendly games against Mali in Bamako, after falling ill has raised a lot of tension among our fans…When the Football Association of Zambia announced that I won’t participate in the two friendly games with Patson Daka who unfortunately fell ill too, a lot of things were said by our own respected fans that was mainly based on hate, abuse and jealous,” Mwepu wrote on Instagram.
‘The Computer’ as he is fondly known, further expressed disappointment that fans could reach the extent of saying hateful words towards him and Leicester City FC striker Patson Daka who also fell ill and couldn’t be part of the match day squad too.
He revealed he had been hospitalized for four days at a local hospital in Mali and that the Doctors could not disclose every detail about his health to the public which led to his admission because of confidentiality purposes.
“I am saddened and worried as the captain of the National team following such bad reactions and comments towards your players…..We travelled to Bamako firmly focused on honouring the call-up as it is always an honour and a big privilege to represent the National team. Nevertheless, we couldn’t play because of the seriousness of the situation (illness) which led me to spend at least 3-4 days in a Hospital in Bamako where the doctors can’t disclose everything in detail about what happened.”
Mwepu has demanded for respect from fans and urged them to support the team unconditionally but reminded them that, ‘there are more important things than football’.
“I just want to let the fans know that, as much as you all want me or Patson or any other player you want to play for the National team, there are things that are more important than football especially where Health and family are concerned.. I urge all the fans to be more civil, polite and show respect in their comments and reactions rather than insulting and pulling their own players down.
“We are a Christian Nation and that means we need to pray, love, support and embrace our people regardless of their reasons…Remember, words can damage, kill or destroy someone so as fans let’s mind what we post moreover, no one can fake an illness…..I write this with love for all Zambian fans who want to see the team succeed and make progress.” he concluded in his recent post on Instagram.
The Chipolopolo Boys who lost 1-0 to Mali on Friday last week, will be in action again tonight for a return Friendly encounter with the Eagles in a match that will not feature the Albion Midfielder and Leicester City striker Patson Daka who both fell ill while in Mali for the international window.
