EXPECT A MORE ENTERTAINING ZESCO UNITED: OTIENO

Kenyan International and ZESCO United goalkeeper Ian Otieno has tipped the club supporters to expect entertaining football from the eight times league champions when the 2020/2021 Super League season starts.

Otieno who joined ZESCO United this year from Red Arrows is impressed with coach Numba Mumamba’s tactical nuance.

“I like the fact that he wants us to play from the back and he is giving us a lot of confidence to do so. I think people should expect to watch a very entertaining ZESCO United side when the season starts,” he said.

He further disclosed that players at the club had adjusted to the change in management and are firmly focused on retaining the Super League title.

“Firstly, I have to say that the coach has settled in very well and he has been like a father figure to us all. There is nothing more that we can do but to do our best for him like we did for the former coach.

Remember this is work for us and work has to go on whether there is a new coach or not. We have to keep our heads down and hit the ground running. That is what is crucial for us now.”

With a few weeks to go before the start of the Zambian Super League, Otieno is already thinking about the need to begin on a positive note.

“We all know the significance of starting the season on a positive note because we will be fighting on one front. There is no taking chances because every game will be like a final to us. Whether playing a small team or big team.”

The Kenyan international goalkeeper also expressed happiness with his recent call-up to the National Team.

Kenya beat Zambia 2-1 in an international friendly with the ZESCO United goalkeeper between the sticks for the Harambee Stars.

“I think it is important for my career development. It gives me confidence because there are more established players at national team level. I also owe it to ZESCO United because they have given me a chance to travel.

What is crucial for me is to use the experience and exposure from the national team to help my club win titles.  Our target now is to win the League and other national competitions we will participate in. I will use this outing and exposure as a stepping stone.”

Author: Desmond Katongo