Zambia midfielder Emmanuel Banda has revealed he is in contact with Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Enock Mwepu after he was forced to retire.
Mwepu announced his decision to end his playing career this earlier this week after medical tests had revealed he was suffering from a hereditary heart condition.
The 24-year-old had fallen ill while on a flight to link up with his Zambia teammates in the international break last month and further tests had revealed the underlying issue.
The condition is so severe that Mwepu was advised he could suffer a cardiac arrest should he continue playing football.
Thus, the Brighton man has been forced to bring his career to a premature end, a blow to both the Seagulls and his country, who both had high hopes for him.
The midfielder has been sent support from across the football community, and Banda, a Zambia international himself, is one of those doing so.
He played alongside Mwepu for the national team and this week revealed a t-shirt reading “Keep being strong, Comps” when he scored against Belgian side KAA Gent.
He’s since talked to Expressen about the decision to do that and detailed the conversations he’s had with the Brighton man.
“I just wanted to show him that we support him and that we are together in this. I’m glad I got the goal and that I can support him even though I’m here and he’s in England,” he said.
“I was pretty devastated. When it all started, I was with him on his way to a match with the national team. So, to hear the news… I didn’t think it was that serious but that he would be able to play again.
“I talk to him almost every day now. Sending messages, calling. The last few days have been overwhelming.
“It’s happened, but he can’t change it. He’s disappointed, of course, but he sounds confident. That gives me hope!”
