Salford City are set to capture free agent right-back Haji Mnoga according to reports.
The Tanzanian was most recently at Portsmouth, where he emerged through the academy system but failed to stake a place in the Pompey lineup. He has been loaned out into the National League, featuring for Aldershot Town over the past 18 months.
His deal at Fratton Park ended this summer after making just five appearances for his parent club and has now passed his medical at Salford City according to Sky Sports’ Pete Graves. The Ammies have not secured a win yet in League Two and are sat in 20th place.
Karl Robinson’s side were plagued with injury issues at right-back in the second half of last season, using West Ham United midfielder Dan Chesters for large stretches of the season. Ethan Ingram and Liam Shephard were the main choices before they were taken out of action.
The former MK Dons boss has signed Chesters permanently this season and has continued to be played in his makeshift position. The arrival of Tom Edwards from Huddersfield Town has relieved the 20-year-old of some of the burden but did play the full 90 minutes in their goalless draw against Bradford City.
Mnoga’s previous EFL experience comes with Pompey and a short stint with Gillingham in 2022. He played four games in Kent but his loan move at Priestfield was not extended past January.
Writer’s View
Mnoga may not be an experienced player in the EFL but he does solve a key issue for Salford City. Right-back had become a bogey position and injuries across the squad was a big factor in what led to the sacking of Neil Wood in December. He probably won’t be a regular starter but the depth is the key issue at right-back. He also is only 22, so coming to a club looking to rebuild after a difficult season can help him get some much-needed minutes in professional football.
Salford do have a big task on their hands to get back to their previous highs under Neil Wood. Last season very quickly became a write-off and this season is starting in a similar manner. Losing their big forwards in Matt Smith and Callum Hendry is a massive blow and they may need to find an additional forward this window to support former Burton Albion man Cole Stockton.
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