Hakaluba recently moved to Trident on a loan deal from the Green Eagles, where he spent 14 seasons. He previously helped the Eagles qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup and CAF Champions League.

The 31-year-old made his debut for Trident on Saturday when the Conquerors were held to a 1-1 home draw by the Kansanshi Dynamos in Week One.

Hakaluba said his decision to join the North-Western side was inspired by passion and not monetary gains.

“Football is not only about money but passion, because if you play for money without passion, then you are losing it as a footballer,” Hakaluba said.

He adds that it was easy to settle for Trident because he wants to play a role in establishing the team’s Super League status.

“Passion will drive you to work harder, and then motivation will automatically follow you up. Yes, I had offers, but I had a lot to consider, and by God’s grace, the almighty had a final say.”

The defensive midfielder won his club’s Man of the Match award in Week One of the Super League on his debut against the Kansanshi Dynamos.

Hakaluba aims to help Trident maintain Super League status

Hakaluba is optimistic about helping the team stabilize and stay in the Super League at the end of the new season.

“I am here to add value to the team, and with my experience, I have a bigger role to play in the growth of this team.

“My ambition is to help the team win more matches and help it fly high to achieve its targets for the season.”

The veteran midfielder has underscored the importance of having a squad composed of youthful and experienced players.“It’s a great feeling, we have good quality youth players with great talent and it’s our duty as experienced players to guide, motivate, and encourage them, for they have a bright future ahead of them,” he said.