Tavaka Gumbo and Nesbert ' Yabo' Saruchera have emerged as the front runners for the Chapungu job.

The job fell vacant following the resignation of John Nyikadzino at the conclusion of the 2016 league season a fortnight ago.

A source within the Chapungu executive told SportsZone that Gumbo and Saruchera have emerged the favourites because of their familiarity with Chapungu. Gumbo once coached the now defunct Gweru based Hardbody and a number of lower division sides in the city while Saruchera a member of the national army has been in charge of Commando Bullets in the Northern Region Division 1.

" Gumbo needs no introduction to Gweru being a Midlands person, he has also worked with a number of current players in the team. He also knows which players to bring since we also want to have more players from the province to boost our support base in the region. As for Saruchera, he is in the military making him a good candidate as he knows the system," the source said.

Chapungu finished 13th on the log standings, their worst position since their return to the premiership four seasons ago. Other coaches who have been linked to the job includes former ZPC Kariba assistant coach Godfrey Tamirepi who is coaching in Swaziland, Tsholotsho coach Lizwe Sweswe and national U20 coach Mandla Mpofu.