Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub CHICKEN Inn are close to acquiring the signature of Philani Mabhena as their new assistant coach. According to sources within the club, Mabhena is set to replace Fungai “Tostao” Kwashi, who was re-assigned to the club’s development teams in the later stages of the first half of the season. Although the deal appears to be all but done, the club has officially denied confirming the appointment at this stage. “We have not made such an announcement therefore we have not hired anyone for that position,” said Chicken Inn communications officer Nkululeko Nkala. Pressed on whether the club would hire someone for that role, Nkala responded cautiously. “We are not in a familiar position on the log standings as Chicken Inn and we are doing all we can to make sure that we get back to where we belong.” Mabhena, who has coached at Highlanders, FC Platinum, How Mine, and in Botswana, is no stranger to the Gamecocks, having served as assistant coach during their promotion to the top-flight league in 2011. In a confirmed move, Nkala stated that Scottland FC striker Lynoth Chikuhwa has joined Chicken Inn on loan. Chikuhwa, the 2024 Castle Lager Golden Boot winner with 17 goals, managed just one goal this season at Scottland. Chikuhwa trained with Chicken Inn yesterday. The 2015 league champions are seeking to regain momentum in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League and will travel to Mandava Stadium to face FC Platinum this Saturday, after a confidence-boosting 2–1 win over Yadah FC at Luveve.