Medo keen to restore lost glory at Sofapaka

New Sofapaka coach Melis Medo has set his sights on transforming the club to a title-winning outfit.

Sofapaka, who last won the league in 2009 under Robert Matano, endured an underwhelming campaign last season where they finished fifth in the league and lost 3-2 to Kariobangi Sharks in the SportPesa Shield final.

The beaming Egypt-born American trainer signed a two-year contract with 'Batoto Ba Mungu' after a successful five-month stint at Nakumatt where he helped the then cash-strapped side (now referred to as Mt Kenya United) survive relegation.

"Sofapaka is a club with a rich history and ought not to be struggling to win a domestic league silverware," said Medo after he was unveiled by club owner Elly Kalekwa at the club's training ground in Eastleigh High School on Saturday.

"I will set certain benchmarks but first, the players and the team handlers have to work extremely hard for the club to achieve its dream."

Medo also warned his players that he expects them to give hundred per cent whenever they are called upon. 

"I want players who can endure the rigours of 120 minutes on the pitch rather than during the regulatory 90 minutes. All I want is maximum concentration from each of them and the rest shall fall in place."

Medo replaces Ugandan tactician Sam Ssimbwa who was sacked in April following a string of poor performances. He will be assisted by former Kenyan international John Baraza who has been holding brief since Ssimbwa's departure. 

"Medo's CV spoke volumes and this is exactly why we contacted him. I am sure he will do a wonderful job," said Kalekwa.

"We had a good performance last season and with the arrival of Medo, I believe it will get better," added skipper Stephen Waruru.