Gor Mahia star in 'pain' after Kerr's exit
Harambee Stars defender Philemon Otieno dribbles past Black Stars' Majeed Waris during their Africa Cup of Nations Group F qualifying match at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |
What you need to know:
- Nizigiyimana picked a long-term injury in October last year before Ochieng followed suit early in the 2018 season, forcing Kerr field Otieno at right back.
Gor Mahia utility player Philemon Otieno has thanked outgoing coach Dylan Kerr for the influence he had in his career during his time with the Kenyan Premier League champions.
It’s under Kerr, who resigned from his position as the club's head coach on Thursday, that Otieno, predominately a midfielder - was deployed at the right back position after fan-favourite Burundian defender Karim Nizigiyimana and Wellington Ochieng sustained injuries.
Nizigiyimana picked a long-term injury in October last year before Ochieng followed suit early in the 2018 season, forcing Kerr field Otieno at right back.
The Kenyan international is one of the players pained by the Englishman’s exit terming him an inspiration and mentor during their charge for the 2018 league title.
“I didn’t know that I had the potential to play as a right back but his coaching style made me learn how to play in that position. I will remember him for that,” said the former Ushuru player.
“It’s under him I earned a call up to the national team and played in important games that have seen us inch closer to qualifying for the Cup of Nations,” added Otieno, who made his Harambee Stars debut in a 1-0 win over Ghana in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) Group “F” qualifier at Kasarani on September 8.
He joined Gor from Ushuru two seasons ago.
