City Stars coach Ochieng’ not keen to stay on

By Gilbert Wandera

Before October 17, there appeared to be no way out for Nairobi City Stars as relegation-bound teams battled for survival in a highly competitive Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

But then, City Stars upset former champions Ulinzi 1-0 and it marked a major turn around for the Kawangware- based side who after that found the lifeline that eventually helped them to survive on the last day of competition.

Stand in coach Gideon Ochieng’ believes that stopping Ulinzi on that day was the beginning of good times for them as it gave them enough self-belief and confidence to fight for a place in top-flight football next season.

"It was an important victory for us because from then on, we began to believe that we would survive relegation. It became a reference point for our remaining matches," explained an elated Ochieng’ after leading his side to a 4-2 win over Karuturi Sports which eventually guaranteed their survival.

While most coaches would insist on staying on after such a great come-back, Ochieng’ says he is not keen to stay since he has finished his job and it is time to move on to other things. "When I was hired, we had an agreement with the club management that I would be coming in only as a stand in manager and help City Stars survive. I have done it and now it is time to move on,"

"Ken Odhiambo is still the coach and it is time for him to take over and see how best to prepare the team for next season," said Ochieng.

Before joining City Stars, Ochieng’ had been fired at relegated Congo United. He has also handled Gor Mahia previously. City Stars chairman Peter Jabuya, however, revealed that they are keen to sit down with Ochieng’ and discuss a possible permanent move.

"He has proved himself by helping us survive relegation. It is now upto us to give him a permanent offer to help us next season and that is our intention,"

"He took over at a time when we were down and out and he has guided us back to the top league and we are very grateful," added Jabuya.

Jabuya said the club will redouble its efforts to acquire a sponsor for next season.

"It has been a major struggle to pay salaries and manage the team as a single individual. We owe salaries for the last two months but we hope to sort it out soon," said Jabuya.