Asike’s comeback boosts Tusker’s title quest, sets the stage
By Dennis Mabuka, September 7, 2023Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano has revealed the reason defender Eugine Asike is back at the Ruaraka-based FKF Premier League side.
The 29-year-old Asike left the Brewers in the middle of last season to sign for Swedish side IF Karlstad Fotboll. However, despite putting pen to paper on a six-month contract with the side, Asike returned to re-join the Brewers and was named on the matchday squad as they battled to a 1-1 Premier League draw against Kariobangi Sharks at Ruaraka grounds on Saturday.
Queried to explain the transfer, 59-year-old Matano said it was necessitated by the fact he was working to bring balance into the team as they challenge for titles this campaign.
“As you know Tusker is challenging for titles and we can achieve our target with experienced players on our side. We needed someone who could guide the new players and we decided to bring in Asike.
“Furthermore, Asike fits the bill very well because he has been with us before, he understands our philosophies, and the demands of the club, and he was available, so it was an easy decision to make.”
Matano also revealed that since it was going to be a fast-paced season, they (Tusker FC) needed to find a balance between their senior players and the entrants as this would help an effective cohesion in the squad.
“The arrival of Asike will help us in that; he will also guide these young players.”
Speaking on making his return to Tusker, in a previous interview, Asike explained his decision to leave Sweden by saying: “I made the decision to come back to Tusker because I have a few contractual issues with my club in Sweden.
I only felt the only way to keep myself busy and get enough game time is to return home and rejoin Tusker as the issue is being sorted out.”
“It feels great to be back home. I am happy to come back but I have met many new faces so I am still trying to get to know them,” said Asike.
Asike expressed that he was very impressed by the “hunger of the new players,” adding, “They look hungry for success and look like they want to fight for every trophy. And with my experience, I am hopeful we can have a great season by achieving the results we want.”
Tusker kicked off their season with a 1-0 victory against Bandari away in Mombasa before settling for a 1-1 draw against Sharks last Saturday.