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Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno sits out due to tactical strategy, praised for professionalism, and remains a crucial asset to the team.
Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno has yet to make his mark on the pitch in the 2023/2024 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) season.
Otieno, a mainstay in the club for the past six years, surprisingly has not featured in any of the six matches played by the team this season.
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16:59 - 09.10.2023
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This absence has raised eyebrows among the fans and pundits alike, but head coach jonathan McKinstry has shed light on the situation, praising Otieno's unwavering dedication to the club.
Philemon Otieno, who took the captain's armband in February 2022 following Kenneth Muguna's departure, successfully led the team to clinch the FKPL title last season.
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He also served as an assistant to the towering centre back Harun Shakava, who left the club the previous year to join the law enforcement side, Kenya Police FC.
Coach McKinstry has finally clarified the mystery behind Otieno's absence from the starting lineup, emphasizing the professionalism and dedication that the 30-year-old captain brings to the team.
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"Philemon is the ultimate professional. We spoke to him earlier during pre-season, and he was aware that we were signing Rooney Onyango. He also knew that we have Paul Ochuoga, who started more games last season as a right back," the coach explained.
"We informed him that he has a year left on his contract and asked, 'What do you want to do?' He expressed his desire to stay and fight for his place. Here we have another player we need to play tomorrow, and Philemon is fit and ready to step in," the coach added.
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13:29 - 09.10.2023
FKFPL McKinstry admits AFC Leopards had 'better chances' against Gor Mahia in Mashemeji Derby
McKinstry admitted that AFC Leopards ‘were creating the better chances’ while his side played the football before capitalising on the few opportunities they got.
Otieno's commitment to the club has not gone unnoticed, with the coach drawing a parallel to Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles.
Despite not being a regular starter, both Otieno and Lascelles have shown exceptional performances when called upon, reflecting their unwavering dedication and professionalism.
"Philemon is a true professional; we love having him at the club. We're glad he decided to stay, and he's always ready when we need him," the coach affirmed.
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12:45 - 09.10.2023
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The unexpected tactical decision to bench Otieno has certainly sparked conversations among fans, but coach McKinstry explanation sheds light on the strategic thinking employed by the coaching staff.
Gor Mahia supporters can rest assured that, despite not being a regular starter, their captain remains a vital asset to the team, ready to make an impact whenever called upon.
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