Straight from impressing over two legs against Lesotho in the Ivory Coast 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifier, Fashion Sakala has opened about his relationship with the Chipolopolo fans.
The 26 year scored a goal and provided two assists as Zambia claimed 6 points to temporarily go took of group H on 9 points.
Below is Fashion Sakala’s statement posted on social media.
Being called for National Team games has and will always be an honour to me. However this time it has been very difficult and by far the worst experience of my entire career.
Over the years I have endured the pain of being insulted endlessly by the Zambian fans for my style of playing, game after game. The game we had in South Africa on the 26th March 2023 was no different as I was brutally insulted, being called selfish etc by Zambian fans at the Stadium before the game started.
I am a winger. I am highly trained to dribble , cause threats to opponents and have as many touches as it profits the team to have more chances and I believe that’s why I have been playing successfully in Europe for 7 years .
I have no doubt that my performances in Europe contribute immensely in the decisions that grant me being called for National team games and to add value to the squad.
I am very disappointed in the Zambian fans for the vicious insults and endlessly booing directed to me, when I have done nothing but show hard work, sacrifice, dedication and commitment to win games for my country.
I appreciate the support I’m receiving from my family,National team coach, the entire management, my team mates and all the fans that has shown me love and support
I will continue to wear my national team jersey with pride because Zambia represent unity.
This has to be the easiest route to Afcon for Zed in decades.
Lesotho and Comoros -no disrespect to anyone, are not serious contenders.
We blew Lesotho out of the water and if it wasn’t for Toaster, it was effectively a 5 nil aggregate thrashing.
We should give Ivory coast a hiding too especially with Fashion on fire not forgetting Lameck and big Frankie at the back and Je t’aime Mabika to come on board as well.
Very true Zamfoot we are at the finishing line.
It’s a pity the under 23’s have failed,so there a reality check.
In life not all people will appreciate you i think this not the time to concentrate on what the supporters are saying but brush off everything and concentrate on qualifying the team to AFCON
Fashion is a great player. I follow him on every game with rangers. In my opinion he has really improved and has taken his game to another level. He is premier League material now.
As a nation, I think we need to support him. His contribution to the national team cannot go unnoticed as well. I like his game. He is a fighter. Much love and appreciation Fashion.
Thanks for that equaliser that brought us back into the game during the first leg. Thanks for the two assists in the second level, all against Lesotho. I’m one of your number one fans.
Fashion forget about those that are insulting you some people are just destructors pliz don’t lose focus continue working had, your future is bright fight for your position both at club level and national team young man
Fashion Sakala U’re a part of Zambian team, U make a complete body of our national team and you are highly valued for the team. U play football with passion and give all the energy and you always take chances to score which when you don’t score fans take it as being selfish, whereas if you scored no one would have considered you selfish……..Fans stop being hatred towards Fashion Sakala and learn to be positive and appreciate the diligent work Fashion always put for the team…….Fashion always know we love you as Zambian fan’s and are proud of you always and remain sound in spite of ungrateful Zambian fan’s….
fashion we love you and you are one of the best players in the world continue to make our country proude . dont mind the vuvuzelas my brother
Even when people saw jesus heal the sick so miraculously they said he was using evil spirits. Even when seen bringing the dead to life they killed him. What was football in Zambia immediately before you guys. We almost stated to claim back tax payers money going to ministry of sports. But your hard work passion fashion has brought fresh air to Zambian football .Remain forecasted. You are the next Ronaldo look at your legs physic KUNYUNYA jealous down gogogogo fashion infact I have a goat for you my man as a traditional token
Fashion Sakala is a great player, who has helped lift the Zambian flag high. Your style of playing is highly appreciated and may God’s hand continue resting upon you 🙏 #onelovebulldozer
Fashion Sakala, you are a great player, always passionate for Zambia. Your display should only elicit thumbs up and admiration. Providing assists for both goals in away game , scoring the equalizer in the home game . What more can you ask for from a player. You have done Zambia great service,
Please do not be discouraged, keep pressing on. Keep up the good work.
I think we finally have a team to take us far. Excellent front and mid field. Defence is also getting more solid. That Frankie Musonda is such a revelation. No words about the from and mid field they were just excellent.
Continue with your strength young man. Your future is in the right direction. Comments will always be there either positive or negative what is important is for you to remain focused as a player. Even mosalah we sometimes call him selfish but he keeps on going.
Those people who are insulting and saying whatever they are saying they don’t understand football and they never played football in there lives sakala is very good player he has confidence on⚽ ball controlling that’s what a midfielder supposed to be… ⚽⚽⚽
Much love for you Fashion Jr. You’re a world class dribbler and give your best for our country and Rangers. Keep it up!
I think been a public personal goes with undue criticism so young man take with a high chin and realize you are contributing alot to the zamabian and football community at large, as yourself those insulting and booing you what have they ever contributed to the nation. We have a spirit of PDS remember your little village up in eastern province people will always appreciate how you put them somewhere dont blow away the aspirations of your young supporters back home who are looking to emulate you please