Ex Chipolopolo physical trainer Jamie Lawrence is disappointed with FAZ’s decision to separate with Avram Grant, saying the technical bench should have been given the chance to lead the Chipolopolo at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December.

Lawrence, who joined Grant’s backroom staff nearly three years ago, said the experience of working with the Israeli coach and the Zambian players had been one of the most fulfilling chapters of his professional career.

“I am gutted because the gaffer has left Zambia. That means my time with Zambia is up. When I joined about three years ago, we were getting a call,” Lawrence posted on his Instagram page.

Reflecting on his journey with the team, Lawrence paid tribute to his fellow backroom staff and praised Grant’s leadership for reviving the Chipolopolo’s fortunes.

“It has been a journey and a half. We have achieved a hell of a lot. To all the backroom staff, especially to the gaffer, I’ve been grateful to have you as work colleagues and I class you as friends,” he said.

“We’ve been on this journey together and each and every single person has played their part. When we joined, Zambia had not qualified for African Nations for years. We have managed to qualify for the last two.”

Lawrence said he was particularly disappointed that the technical team would not have the opportunity to continue their work at the AFCON finals in December, after guiding the country to back-to-back qualifications.

“Next African Nations is December, which I’m a bit gutted about because I think that we should have been given the chance to see it through,” he said.

Lawrence on Chipolopolo Progress

Zambia is in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali and Comoros.

Despite the abrupt end, the former Jamaican international said he leaves Zambia proud of the progress made under Grant’s tenure, both in the team’s performance and the development of individual players.

“I have seen progress in the players, the team, progress everywhere and it fills me with pride that I took a team onto another level. For me, I have to thank the players who have been magnificent to a man,” Lawrence added.

He also had emotional words for the entire Chipolopolo setup, saying he would cherish the friendships and memories made during his time in Zambia.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with all of you. I hope that I have left a lasting impression. I hope that you go on to bigger and better things. Zambia will always be in my heart and I will look out for your results. Thank you for all the good times we have shared. Never to be forgotten.”