Phiri, the former coach of the Zambian national team, has been offered a one-year renewable contract, and is expected to take up his post at the beginning of January.

BBC: Former Zambian international Patrick Phiri

The 59-year-old is on a two-year renewable contract.

BBC: Ziese feels Ghana heat

"I can confirm that Patrick has signed a one-year renewable contract and is expected to start work on 4 January, " Suleyman Saleh, the spokesperson of Mohammed Enterprises company told the BBC Sport website.

BBC: Former Zambian international Patrick Phiri

Thus did Tan recruit five Cathay executives for a five-year renewable management contract.

CNN: THE TROUBLESHOOTERS