The Labasa football fans have been told to expect a major signing this week. The Babasiga Lions are on the verge of losing top goalkeeper and captain, Akuila Mateisuva to Suva.

However, words from the grapevines indicate that the Northerners are eyeing the services of veteran goalkeeper, Simione Tamanisau, along with Atunaisa Naucukidi.

If that is true, then Tamanisau is heading back to where it all started for him. In the   1980s, the Tailevu native was raised at the Labasa Police Station compound where his dad was based at that time.

Now at 39, Tamanisau are police officer could be the guiding light for Naucukidi.

It was unfortunate that the 24-year-old was not given the break he deserved by the Suva Football Association during last year’s Digicel Premier League after Beniamino Mateinaqara moved to Lautoka.

In another interesting move, classy Lautoka midfielder Dave Radrigai, defender Malakai Rakula and Ba striker Samuela Drudru could be moving to Suva in the new season as well.

It is understood that Drudru had signed his contract with Suva last week while Radrigai was with Suva FA officials in the weekend.

Bring ‘Johnny’ back

Meanwhile, we welcome Tailevu/Naitasiri, Nadroga and Nasinu back to the Premier Division.

For Nadroga and Nasinu their promotion is through the courtesy of the Fiji Football Association, after they have increased the number of teams- from eight to 10- to play in the Digicel Premier League competition. For the Stallions, they must immediately reinstate former coach Johnny Williams.

It was sad at the way they had overlooked Williams after he coached them back to the Premier Division in 2020. Once with the big boys, the Nadroga FA officials opted for other coaches and they paid the price for it.

Feedback:  leonec@fijisun.com.fj