Thumbs up as Bandari squad make vital finishing touches

Bandari FC head coach Antony Kimani. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Bandari football club has pitched tent in Nairobi as they prepare for the 2022/23 premier league that kicks off on September 10.

Bandari open their title chase with a match against Kenya Police in Nairobi.

Bandari's media liaison Steven Heywood said their new signings have reported to camp and are in Nairobi with the team.

"Bandari has been in Nairobi since last week to give coach Anthony Kimani the chance to work closely with his squad," said Heywood. He added that the team has camped at Goan Institute.

"Coach Kimani is full of enthusiasm ahead of the start of the league. We went on a recruitment spree and got the best players we wanted to strengthen the team," said Heywood.

He said the team will play several friendly matches before returning to Mombasa for more training sessions.

"We have lined up several build-up matches including one against Kariobangi Sharks on Wednesday (tomorrow) at the Utalii grounds," said Heywood.

Wilberforce Lugogo and Hamid Mohammed, who were on loan at Sofapaka, have returned to the club, ready for the new season.

The duo left the Mombasa-based club last year for Sofapaka on loan and are looking forward to consolidate first team slots when the league kicks off.

The dockers have also signed Omar Somobwana and Mohammed Abeid from AFC Leopards and Coastal Heroes respectively.

The pair has penned down a two-year contract each and should continue to strengthen Bandari's search for their maiden Kenya Premier League title.

Bandari have also brought on board former Wazito player Fidel Origa, on a three-year contract.

Bandari's Technical Committee chairman Musa Hassan said the duo is a reflection of the philosophy that will ensure the longevity of Bandari.

"Our core philosophy has been to develop young talent and this is why we have signed the two. We are looking forward to beef up the squad as we seek to push for a maiden title challenge in the 2022/23 season," said Hassan.

Somobwana is a dynamic defender from Lamu and has previously played for the national Under- 17 and 20 teams.

"I am happy to finally pen down an official contract and I am looking forward to produce excellent performance. I have good chemistry with coach Kimani and I should thrive under his leadership," said Abeid.

Bandari also raided Kariobangi Sharks to sign Felix Oluoch, who previously played for the newly promoted AP Bomet.

The club has also confirmed the departure of midfielders Collins Agade, a free agent, and Danson Namasaka to KCB.