Muhiddin blames military duties for Ulinzi Stars woes in KPL

The four-time league champions face a fierce survival bid as they seek to avoid relegation for the first time since their promotion to the top-flight league in 1998.

With most of the players in the squad being soldiers, Muhiddin believes the side has struggled for consistency whenever the players trade their football profession for military duties at critical stages of the league.

“The players travel a lot and sometimes focus on other work, so it becomes hard to train consistently as a team. Football needs commitment and regular training,” says Muhiddin.

Ulinzi are rooted in the relegation zone in 16th place with 32 points, one below the safety area with only three rounds remaining.

Muhiddin also blamed the frequent managerial changes at the club, saying it becomes difficult for players to adjust every time a new coach comes in with a different style of play.

“Every coach has their own tactics and philosophy. When changes happen too often, players take time to adjust and that can affect results,” he added.

Former coaches Dunstan Nyaudo and the 2010 title-winning captain Steve Ochola were both dismissed following poor results as the club struggled for consistency throughout the season before current coach Mulinge Ndeto took over to steer the ship in March.

Muhiddin however believes Ulinzi Stars have the quality to stay up if the players go flat out in the remaining matches.

“This is still a good team with experienced players. They just need to work extra hard and believe they can get out of this situation.”

“The fans should continue supporting the team and believing in them. That support can motivate the players to fight harder,” he added.

The soldiers are in a daunting run-in in their last three matches, facing former champions and seventh-placed Tusker FC before crucial relegation clashes against Mathare United and Posta Rangers on the final day of the season.