Kalaba, 33, won the last of his 108 caps for the Chipolopolo back in 2018 after reported disputes with management during a tumultuous period for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions.
The diminutive midfielder who has been one of their key figures since making his international debut back in 2005 has welcomed the idea of 'Micho' taking over the reins as national team manager.
Ahead of TP Mazembe's clash with Zamalek in Cairo on Friday, the 33-year-old suggested that the former White Knights boss could be what's needed for the underperforming side.
"I think that Micho is a great coach, he is one of the good coaches in Africa," Kalaba explained. "He has been trained to be on top, he has been with many national teams in Africa.
"This is a [good] opportunity for Zambia to have him as a coach because he always wants to win and he always wants to do better.
"With the quality of players we have in Zambia, they are young and want to achieve something for the future, I think he will help a lot of young players achieve their dreams."
On talks of returning to the squad that's now missed out on qualification for two consecutive AFCON's, Kalaba remained as patriotic as ever despite the recent upheaval.
"Playing for the national team, this is my country, I can't run away from it and if they need my services I'm still around until one day I say I want to stop for the national team."