Red Arrows defender Zephaniah Phiri is eager to return to action after fully recovering from injury.

Following a standout performance on his national team debut in Zambia’s 3-0 victory over Uganda in a friendly match in October 2023, Phiri has seemingly faded from the spotlight.

He was solid defensively, making several key interventions to deny Uganda any significant threats. Zambia cruised to victory, with Patson Daka scoring twice and Fashion Sakala adding another. Phiri also contributed with two assists in that match.

His performance garnered praise from fans, many of whom took to social media to acclaim him as a future star for Zambia.

Now, after more than six months on the sidelines, the Chipolopolo defender has completed two months of normal training and is eager to make his return.

Phiri, a former Prison Leopards left-back, sustained a groin injury during the Chipolopolo’s participation in a four-nation tournament in Malawi last year.

Since returning to Red Arrows at the start of the 2024/25 season, Phiri has not featured in any league games.

Now, Phiri is hopeful of playing in the final six matches of the season.

Speaking exclusively to Bolanews, Phiri expressed his readiness: “I am fit now, hoping to be given a chance soon. I will continue working hard and pushing. It’s almost two months from the time I started training. If I work hard and impress, the coach might include me in the starting lineup,” said Phiri.

Phiri joined Buildcon in 2019 before moving to Prison Leopards, and later rejoined his parent club, Red Arrows, at the start of this season.

READ MORE: Fridah Mukoma Joins Kansas City Current, Becomes Fifth Zambian Signed by NWSL Club