Former Southampton striker and 2012 African Cup of Nations golden boot winner Emmanuel Mayuka has expressed sympathy for Leicester City’s relegation from the English Premier League.
Chipolopolo striker Patson Daka and his Leicester City team had a difficult season, which ended with their relegation to the Championship.
Daka, who became the first Zambian to score in the Premier League in 2021 against Manchester United, only found the back of the net four times in 13 starts for the Foxes last season.
In his last two seasons at the club, he scored a total of nine goals in the Premier League and 15 across all competitions in 74 appearances.
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Meanwhile, Mayuka, who was the third Zambian to play in the Premier League with Southampton in 2012, making 16 appearances, says Daka must be mentally strong.
“Football is hectic and difficult at times; they didn’t have a good season. I feel sorry for him, but he has to be mentally strong,” said the former Premier League striker.
The 33-year-old, who is currently the strikers’ coach for Zambia National Division One club Atletico Lusaka, has advised Daka to “walk with his head high.”
“He should continue working hard. He should walk with his head high for achieving great things in England. I have played in the Premier League before, and I know how tough football is that side,” Mayuka told Bolanews in an exclusive interview.
Mayuka advises Daka on next move
On what step Daka should take after Leicester City’s relegation, Mayuka said, “It’s up to him to decide whether to leave or not, but for now he should continue working hard. He has great potential to actually become a great striker in England.”
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Mayuka has lauded Daka for accomplishing things that he did not do during his short stint with the Saints in the Premier League.
“I am proud of what he has done. He has done exceptionally well; he should be proud of himself, ” stated Mayuka.
“He did even better than me, and I give credit to him for his brilliant performance. It’s not easy to play in the English Premier League; it’s a tough league,” concluded the one-time African Champion.
