AFC Leopards' head coach, Patrick Aussems is shaking in his boots over the club's recent string of unforeseen injuries, which may jeopardize their chances of winning the championship this year.
The club is unable to rummage through the ongoing transfer window for quality players given the ban imposed by Fifa that bars them from beefing up the squad.
The situation has now been compounded by the ballooning list of injuries plaguing the squad which largely comprises players promoted from the academy side last season.
Lewis Bandi, a fullback, Musa Oundo, a midfielder, and Kacyi Odhiambo, a center-back, were noticeably absent from the team's final match against Mathare United at Moi Stadium, Kasarani, last weekend.
Aussems says the trio's absence instigated their shock 1-0 loss to the Slum Boys, effectively ending their 10-match unbeaten run.
The Belgian gaffer made the remarks ahead of their next crunch tie against Posta Rangers at Nyayo stadium on Thursday.
"Bandi is currently nursing an injury. He has a meniscus problem which has been subjected to an MRI check to reveal the extent of the damage. Kayci aggravated an injury he sustained earlier in the warmup session before our tie against Mathare. Then Musa sat out with a dental problem," Aussems stated.
Aussems expressed optimism that the trio would recover fully and in time for Thursday's tie.
"I believe we have a good team that can rise to the occasion against any opponent, but the persistent injuries are now a big cause for concern because they could hamper our mission," he added.
Leopards, who are desperately seeking to end their 20-year title drought currently place sixth on the log with 32 points, eight adrift of leaders Gor Mahia.
Aussems has reiterated the burning desire his charges have to garnish their cabinet with the elusive silverware this season.
"That's the best gift we can present to our fans who have been there for us through thick and thin," he said.
In another Round of 20 fixtures set for Thursday, leaders Gor Mahia will seek to consolidate their spot atop the standings when they dare KCB in a top-of-the-table clash at Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
Ulinzi Stars will host champions Tusker at Ulinzi complex in Langata, Nairobi while Wazito and Nairobi City Stars will flex muscles at Muhoroni Stadium in Kisumu.
Bungoma-based millers, Nzoia Sugar, have a date with law enforcers, and Kenya Police at Sudi Stadium in Bungoma.
Sofapaka and Kakamega Homeboyz will settle scores at Kasarani Annex, Nairobi as Mathare United host Bandari in the same venue later in in the day. Kariobangi Sharks travel to Bukhungu stadium to face Vihiga Bullets.
