The Sunday Mail
Don Makanyanga
THE need to be the perfect role model for his seven month old son Ricardo is spurring Rodrick Mutuma into repackaging himself.
After a soul searching expedition in the wilderness, the nomadic forward has found his way back into premiership football again.
The 30-year-old former Dynamos and Caps United striker recently penned a one-year deal with Premiership new-boys Nichrut FC.
And he plans to grab the chance with both hands while also working hard to get rid of his bad boy tag.
“I have young boy now, Ricardo, and I don’t want my son to see the person I used to be.
“I have changed, and want to be a better person. I want to be the perfect role model for my boy,” said Mutuma.
The gangly striker concedes that Nichrut is not the most glamorous of teams but appreciates that the new boys offer him a chance to play in the big time again.
“It’s good to be back playing in the Premiership again,” said Mutuma who quit Northern Region One side Chegutu Pirates last month.
“I had hoped for a return to either DeMbare or Caps United during the break but nothing materialised, and when I realised that time was no longer on my side I ended up settling for Nichrut.
“In as much as I would have wanted to play for those big teams, I believe a team without much pressure could be just what I need. Nichrut is that team,” he said.
Mutuma added that the time he spent away from the lime light gave him a chance to analyse his life.
“The time I spent at home with my family played a huge part in me reaching my decision to join Nichrut and try put some semblance of order back into my life.
“There comes a point in one’s life whereby they have to show some responsibility. I have reached that stage and will now let my football do most of the talking,” he said.
