Buteera tipped to become 'one of the best players' in Rwanda

Ahead of today’s Peace Cup title match against archrivals Rayon Sports, APR Football Club head coach Nizar Khanfir has tipped midfielder Andrew Buteera to be one of the best players in Rwanda. Buteera didn’t get much playing time under Emmanuel Rubona in the first half of the season and rumours started spreading that he could be looking to move on in search of first team football. But since Khanfir took over in early March, the Rwanda international has become an integral part of the starting team, which is just three points from clinching a record-extending 16th league title, and also one win away from a ninth Peace Cup trophy. “He is a very gifted player and everyone can see that, nonetheless, he has to keep working hard because he’s still young and has enough room for improvement. In football, you need to work hard for your own benefit,” the Tunisian tactician said of the central midfielder. He noted that, “Andrew is a good boy, who understands our (coaches) instructions quite easily and I believe he is a key player for both club and country. If he keeps his head down and works hard, there is no doubt in my mind, he will be one of the best players for Rwanda in not so distant future.” Buteera joined APR FC after the 2011 FIFA U17 World Cup in Mexico where Rwanda made a debut. His contract runs out at the end of the current campaign, something that will put interested clubs on alert. However, the player says, at APR, he is at the best place to fulfill his potential. “I am happy and doing well since I got back my place in the starting team. It was difficult not to be playing but I am thankful to the coach (Khanfir) who has given me a chance.” The 22-year old has formed a formidable central midfield partnership with Janvier Benedata, Djihad Bizimana and Yannick Mukunzi. editorial@newtimes.co.rw