The Flames are leaving no stone unturned in preparation for Wednesday’s swim-or-sink 2014 World Cup qualifier against Kenya’s Harambee Stars. They have recalled Blue Eagles versatile midfielder John ‘CJ’ Banda.

Angola-based sweeper James Sangala arrived in the country on Friday, after sorting out his visa complications.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda confirmed Banda’s recall.

“He has joined the squad in an attempt to beef up the squad in preparation for Wednesday’s game.

“CJ has replaced Atusaye Nyondo who has been ruled out due to injury,” said Nyirenda.

Banda bounced back into action recently after recovering from an ankle injury that reduced him to a sideshow for the better part of last season.

He was part of the initial squad that was called up for the World Cup qualifiers, but diplomatically snubbed the call claiming that he was not yet ready for national duty.

Meanwhile, Gabadinho Mhango, who has also been recalled following Flames’ lack of fire-power upfront, started special training together with Sangala and Banda on Saturday.

Caretaker coach Eddington Ng’onamo said the coaching panel would determine by today whether to include them in the squad.