Title-chasing Tusker recieve massive boost as key defender returns after lengthy layoff

Tusker's Michael Kibwage.

Title-chasing Tusker recieve massive boost as key defender returns after lengthy layoff

Evans Ousuru 21:10 - 20.03.2025

Tusker have been boosted by the return of key defender to training ahead of the title run in.

Tusker FC all-action defender Michael Kibwage has returned to full training following  a three-month long lay off.

Kibwage's return is a timely boost for the team, as the Football Kenya Federation Premier League title chase enters the homestretch.

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The versatile and athletic defender has been cleared by the medical team according to Citizen Digital after an abductor muscle tear. Even though the brewers have improved defensively in the last two months, the team's form has nosedived, managing just one win in their last five matches.

Kibwage was relieved to return to training saying: "I’m used to being active and leading others, so this has been a tough period. Watching from the stands has been more stressful than playing. It was heartbreaking to miss almost the whole season, and at some point, even my family was worried that my career could be over."

Kibwage, 27, revealed that he reviewed his performance during the injury period and hopes to return as a better player.  "I didn’t have much to do besides reviewing match clips. I’ve learned a lot and am working on those areas in training so that when I get my chance, I’ll be ready to help the team," he added.

While competition for a place in the starting lineup is cut-throat, the former Sofapaka man said his immediate plan is to regain his position. Kibwae maintained that despite Tusker's Cup disappointment, the team needs to bounce back strongly in the league.

Kibwage is praying that Police and Gor Mahia drop points along the way so that the brewers could be crowned champions at the end of the season. 

"The Cup exit has motivated us to finish the season strongly. We have sat down as a team and decided to use this setback as a turning point in the league. Every match from now on is like a final for us, and we aim to win all our remaining games, hoping that Police and Gor Mahia drop points."

Tusker are second in the 18-team league with 44 points, a point behind leaders Police and two points ahead of third-place Gor Mahia.