Gor Mahia blow as top scorer Oluoch sidelined for months after surgery

Gor Mahia have suffered a significant blow with star striker Felix Oluoch ruled out for an extended period and possibly the rest of the season following a successful knee surgery.

Oluoch, who currently tops the club’s scoring chart with seven goals, is expected to be sidelined for at least three months. This will keep him out of action until the next campaign.

Club’s Team Doctor, Brian Odongo confirmed the development, detailing the procedure and outlining the forward’s road to recovery.

“Felix Oluoch successfully underwent a knee surgery for an osteochondral injury and torn meniscus yesterday.

“He is stable and is expected to return to play in 12 weeks depending on his rehabilitation progress and recovery milestones achieved. He will begin a structured rehabilitation program under close medical supervision,” Odongo stated.

The extended absence leaves a major void in K’Ogalo’s attacking line and with the transfer window currently closed, head coach Charles Akonnor acknowledges that the team must now adapt with the resources available.

Akonnor revealed that Oluoch had already been unavailable for the past few months, meaning the coaching staff has had to manage their remaining striking options carefully. With no room to bring in a replacement until the window reopens, the spotlight now falls on Ghanaian Ebenezer Assifuah to lead the line.

“Felix is now out and probably until next season. We are now left with Ebenezer Assifuah as the main striker and we have to manage him well so that we navigate through the remaining matches without a major setback,” Akonnor said.

“We may have to add another striker when the window opens as we aim to up our standards for bigger stages,” he added, “Not the need for the team to up standards for bigger level of football.”

The recently-crowned January Coach of the Month described the situation as a significant challenge but stressed the importance of making the right tactical calls in the weeks ahead.

“It’s challenging, but such are the situations that we do face. It will mean we make some certain decisions to balance things as we try to maintain our focus through the season. Depending on situations at hand on matters matches, we will make good and right decisions that will be of great significance to the team.”

Gor Mahia sit at the summit of the Kenyan Premier League standings with 49 points, holding a six-point cushion over AFC Leopards. With pressure mounting to hold onto top spot, Akonnor believes mental fortitude will be key to navigating the tricky run-in.

“At such a point, mental toughness is key, and that’s one thing we have perfected and trained the boys on. They know what to do and at what time. Focus is on winning and that means they need to do the right thing. We are at a good place and we know how to handle any situation around us.”