Brighton’s Enock Mwepu, 24, had to end his football career due to a heart defect.
After his 3-0 goal against Gent, Emmanuel Banda pulled his shirt and paid tribute to his team captain.
– The midfielder says I was very shocked when I heard the news.
Djurgarden beat Gent 3-0 in the first half. Emmanuel Banda scored the third goal and then showed a T-shirt that read “Stay strong, Combs.” It was a tribute to Brighton Zambian midfielder Enoch Mwebo, who had to end his career due to a genetic heart defect.
I just want him to know that I support him and that we are together on this. Banda says I am glad I scored the goal so I can show that I support him even though I am here and he is in England.
“computer class”
Panda played for Mwibo in the Zambian national team for several years and the news affected him heavily.
– I was so broken because I was with him in the national team when he started. I thought he would be able to play, but when I heard the news three weeks later it devastated me. I’ve thought about it a lot.
Comp is the nickname?
– We call it “computer” because it’s very smart. He’s a genius with the ball. I’ve played with him in midfield for a long time since the youth national team and what he’s done in midfield is amazing.
Panda has been in contact with Mwipo since the news broke.
– I talk to him almost every day now. It was confusing so I understand he can’t answer all the time, but I’m happy with that, and we talk occasionally to see how he does, he says and continues:
– He’s disappointed but he seems confident and that gives me hope.
