AFC Leopards receive Victor Omune boost
By Collins Amanga, October 20, 2023
AFC Leopards have received a boost with the return of Kenyan International Victor Omune as they prepare for the league’s matchday seven.
Omune had been sidelined since sustaining a knee injury during the FKF Cup semi-final, where Leopards suffered a 1-0 defeat against Kakamega Homeboyz in August. The injury had kept the Harambee Stars midfielder out of action for the opening six league matches.
AFC Leopards return
His comeback is eagerly anticipated, and he is set to feature in the upcoming Mashujaa Day Cup match against Zoo Kericho FC at Kericho Green Stadium.
The squad for this game includes senior players like Brian Wanyama, Gideon Were, Loren James, Brian Mandela, Owen Mboya, and Shawn Oloo.
The remainder of the squad will head to the coast as they aim to end their six-match winless streak in the FKF Premier League campaign. AFC Leopards will take on Bandari at Mbaraki Stadium on Sunday.
AFC Leopards under Trucha
AFC Leopards are now under the guidance of a new coach, Thomas Trucha, who took over from Tom Juma.
Juma left the club while they were struggling in the relegation zone, and Trucha’s primary objective is to help the team climb the league standings.
It’s worth mentioning that Trucha had a previous stint with AFC Leopards in 2020 during the 2020-2021 league season.
Despite initially signing a two-year contract, he departed after the first match, which saw AFC Leopards secure a 2-1 victory at home against Tusker on November 28.
The decision to leave was influenced by alleged physical threats made against Trucha and his representative, Prince Channis, by individuals claiming affiliation with the club.
AFC Leopards have now reappointed Trucha on a two-year deal, entrusting him with the task of leading the team in their quest for improved performance, particularly after a challenging start to the season.
In addition to Thomas Trucha’s return, former club captain Bernard Mang’oli is making a comeback to AFC Leopards, this time taking on the role of team manager. He will be replacing Albert Wesonga, who has been promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer within the club.
The club has also designated Haggai Azande as the new captain, while Joshua Caleb Osir will serve as the assistant physiotherapist. These appointments, officially confirmed by AFC Leopards, come into effect immediately and are contracted for a two-year period.
AFC Leopards Mashujaa Day Cup
starting squad
24. Loren James
28. Nesta Olum
15. Brian Mandela
23. Gideon Were
22. Shawn Oloo
8. Brian Wanyama
77. Owen Mboya
14. Maurice Butichi
33. Victor Omune
29. Len Lung’aho
Substitutions
22. Hannington Minabo
40. Sunday Reech
4. David Otieno
7. John Sibele
5. Samwel Odongo
27. Dan Sunguti
12. Elly Wafula
30. Eugene Gome