Tusker coach Robert Matano has finally revealed why he swooped for the services of striker Erik Kapaito ahead of the new 2023-24 FKF Premier League season.

Despite being unveiled by Zambia’s Zanaco FC, the 27-year-old Kapaito hit a U-turn five days later to sign for the Brewers on a one-year renewable deal and was officially introduced to his new teammates last Thursday, after which he had a light training session.

Matano has now described Kapaito as a goal-scoring machine who will help the team to challenge for titles in the new season. “Eric is one of the best strikers in the region and we are very delighted that he has decided to join us ahead of the new season,” Matano responded when asked about his decision to sign the former Kariobangi Sharks player, adding: “Without a doubt, he will be an invaluable player for us this season with his goal-scoring abilities being a great addition to the team.”

In a previous interview, Kapaito expressed his delight at signing for Tusker and promised to score double-digit goals this season.

“I am delighted to join Tusker because this is one of the biggest clubs in the country. When I had an opportunity to come back home and pick a team, it wasn’t a hard choice to pick on Tusker. This is a club that has won titles and will win more, and I am more than happy to be part of it,” said Kapaito. 

He added; “My target is to help the team achieve its targets and that is to win trophies. I was the MVP and top scorer the season before I left and I want to pick up from there. I want to score double-digit goals this season.”

Kapaito became Tusker’s sixth signing of the pre-season window alongside Ugandan winger John Byamukama, Joseph Mwangi, and James Kibande from Nzoia Sugar, Fabien Adikiny from Murang’a Seal while goalkeeper Edwin Simiyu was promoted from the Youth Team.

Tusker will kick off the new season against Mombasa-based Bandari FC on August 26.