Azam Rwanda Premier League side Mukura Victory Sports kicked off their pre-season training this week in preparation for the 2017/2018 season, which starts on September 29.

Under new head coach Francis Haringingo, the Huye-based club converged for the first time on Monday.

 "I’m happy with the first few days of training, what I have seen from the players so far is quite impressive considering that they have been off for almost two months. There are certain things we need to adjust before the new season starts,” Haringingo told Times Sport.

Asked about the flaws he has spotted after the first three days of training, the former Vital’O tactician said that, "Obviously, we need to improve the players’ fitness, and make sure we set common goals as a team and work hard to achieve them.”

Mukuru have lost key players such as; goalkeeper Andre Mpazimaka, Daniel Mwiseneza, Youssuf Habimana, Philbert Shyaka and Ally Niyonzima, but the Black-and-Yellow outfit also moved fast to sign replacements.

Striker Rashid Mutebi was Mukura’s first signing of the summer, from archrivals Gicumbi FC, goalie Omar Rwabugiri joined from Musanze FC, Saidi Iragena, David Nshimirimana and Gael Duhayindavyi crossed from the Burundian league.

Playmaker Duhayindavyi, who signed from Vital’O FC where he was named Player of the Year in the Burundian league last season, will be among players to watch in the upcoming season.

Mukura are plotting to recover from last season’s nightmare of finishing 12th in the 16-team league table – they will begin their campaign away against Kirehe FC on September 30.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw