Kenya Police coach counting on experienced Jesse Were to help them make history against Zamalek

Kenya Police coach counting on experienced Jesse Were to help them make history against Zamalek

Mark Kinyanjui 07:00 - 12.09.2024

The vastly experienced former Harambee Stars forward joined Police from Zesco United during the off season and even scored a brace in a recent friendly match against Gor Mahia.

Kenya Police coach Salim Babu believes the signing of the vastly experienced striker Jesse Were will be crucial in helping them make history this season, beginning with their second preliminary CAF Confederation Cup double-header against Zamalek.

Were, a certified Zesco United legend and former Harambee Stars international, missed the earlier preliminary round against Ethiopia Coffee due to registration delays. Despite his absence, Police FC managed to progress with a narrow 1-0 aggregate win, courtesy of a Rashid Toha header in the away leg in Ethiopia.

The highly anticipated first leg against Egyptian giants Zamalek is set to take place at Nairobi's Nyayo National Stadium on September 14, with the return leg a week later in Cairo.

 Babu is confident that Were's inclusion will give his side a much-needed boost, especially after the club struggled in front of goal during the preliminary round.

"I'm excited to have Jesse for this game, especially after we struggled with scoring in the preliminaries. His quality is a big advantage for us," Babu remarked.

Were, who is Zesco United's all-time leading scorer, has also enjoyed stints at AFC Leopards, Mathare United, and Tusker FC, the club where he won the FKFPL golden boot in 2015.

Were joined Kenya Police after the club took advantage of the transfer window between July 21 and August 31 to finalise his registration. Since then, the forward has hit the ground running, impressing the technical staff with his fitness and commitment during training sessions.

"Since he came in, Jesse has been training superbly, and I’m really happy with his progress. I believe he has a lot to offer and will be crucial for us this season, starting with the Zamalek match," Babu emphasised, clearly optimistic about the striker's influence on the team.

Were's sharpness was on full display in a recent friendly match against Gor Mahia at the Police Sacco Grounds, where Kenya Police FC triumphed 2-0, the striker scoring both goals. 

The result, achieved despite the absence of several key players due to national team duties, further solidified Babu's confidence in his squad.

"I gave all available players a chance, and I’m pleased with how we played. Jesse performed well, and I’m satisfied with our progress. We’ll keep improving ahead of Saturday's game," Babu added, praising the team's depth and adaptability in the build-up to their next challenge.