The Netherlands-based forward has not seen national team action since an injury in November sidelined him.

He is currently in his childhood town Kitwe for the off-season holiday after resuming match action at FC Utretcht a month ago.

The 28-year-old gangling striker is now bidding to reclaim his place in the national team but he is aware the battle is not as easy more so that he missed the Africa Cup of Nations in January and February where Zambia won the title for the first time in history.

Mulenga, nurtured by Afrisports of Kitwe, reckons there is stiff competition for places in the national team but is determined to stake a claim.

Mulenga, a son of a Kitwe pastor, is also grateful to God for what he says is another chance to feature in national colours.

Jacob's career has been plagued with injury but the striker has proved a vital part of Chipolopolo whenever an opportunity is dawns.