City Stars' Osano undeterred by failed move to Ethiopia

Nairobi City Stars’ head coach, Nicholas Muyoti is confident that his first choice goalkeeper, Jacob Osano will put his failed transfer to Ethiopian Premier League side Coffee behind him.

Muyoti said that the 27-year-old shot stopper, who kept 13 clean sheets in 29 FKF Premier League games last season, was “mentally strong” and “professional” enough  to overcome that obstacle.

Osano had been given permission by City Stars to fly to Ethiopia for trials with the club a fortnight ago, but he was not successful.

“Osano is a very experienced and mature keeper. He was looking forward to the opportunity but it didn’t work out. He is already back and settled, performing well.

“He needs to stay focused as he usually is. He is mentally strong and very professional. I'm sure many other opportunities will come his way," said the former Harambee Stars skipper.

Muyoti adds that Osano’s attitude surprised him given how positively he responded to the setback.

“He has taken it very positively. I’ve been telling him that even getting considered for the opportunity was a big plus for him. I'm sure many eyes are still on him. We are also happy that he is back and the team and is ready to work,” he added.

Meanwhile, Osano feels very disappointed with the situation regarding the leadership wrangles at Football Kenya Federation (FKF) saying it is to the disadvantage of the players.

“They need to realise we have lost a lot as players, coaches and teams due to the leadership wrangles we have been having. We are missing out on so much. Our teams cannot take part in the CAF competitions, for example, which means we are missing out on opportunities to showcase our capabilities.”

“Whoever gets appointed as the new Sports Cabinet Secretary should find an amicable way of solving this issue. The more it persists, the more we continue to lose opportunities," he noted.

Nairobi City Stars will take part in the semi-finals of the Elite Pre-Season Cup at the Nyayo National stadium on Saturday after rallying from two goals down to hold Ulinzi Stars at the Kasarani Annex last Tuesday.