Balinya happy to fight to earn starting role at Gor

Gor Mahia FC latest Ugandan capture Juma Balinya says the quality of players at his new club means he is not guaranteed a starting role and will fight for his place.

Balinya, who was golden boot winner in the Ugandan Premier League during the 2018/2019 season, says he has settled into the team well and is ready to prove his worth.

“Coming to Gor is not about getting automatic place in the first eleven. I need to work hard in training to impress. These players are very good and here,” Balinya said.

Balinya signed for the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) champions on January 15 after featuring for Tanzania’s Yanga just for six months, leaving on mutual agreement after non-payment of salaries for three months.

He joined Yanga from Uganda’s Police SC in June 2019 on a two year contract which ended prematurely just after six months.

The speedy striker is on record having won the Ugandan Premier League golden boot with Police SC in 2018/2019 season with 19 goals.

The striker says he has come to win trophies for Gor Mahia and will give his heart to the job.

“I know Gor has a big following and I wouldn’t like to disappoint them. I have come here to score goals, and given an opportunity to play, I will accomplish my mission to Kenya,” Balinya said.

Balinya is seen as a direct replacement for Ivorian Guislain Yikpe who left Gor for Yanga last month.

Coach Steven Pollack on his side says the signing of new players is far from over and will be seeking to strengthen the midfield and defence further following the exit of Tobias Otieno who has gone to America for study .