Shabana coach Okoth backs youngster Omuri

Shabana head coach Sammy Okoth has backed youngster Ezekiel Omuri to excel in the Kenyan Premier League.

Omuri made his debut in the second half against Kenya Police and troubled the experienced defenders throughout. He signed a seven-year contract with the Glamour Boys from the Michael Olunga Foundation Academy (MOFA).

At just 17, he became the youngest player to play for Shabana. Coach Okoth, who last week completed a CAF 'B' refresher course in Tanzania, was on Friday full of praise for the diminutive forward.

“This boy is a gem. He gave a good account of himself during his debut. If he remains grounded, he will go far. He is disciplined and works extra hard in training,” said Okoth said.

“Very soon he will earn a starting role in the team. He has challenged experienced players which is good for the team.”

Omuri was happy with his cameo against the law enforcers. 

“I am happy I finally made my KPL debut. It has been my dream to play in the top-flight league. I will continue to work hard so that I become a regular in the team. I believe in myself,” said the Dagoretti High School alumnus.

“It was a special occasion because I played against some of my role models like Harambee Stars midfielders Francis Kahata and Kenneth Muguna. These are players I looked up to when I was young,” said Omuri.

On playing against a star-studded Kenya Police Omuri said: “I was not afraid of any player. They are players like me. It was unfortunate that we drew the game despite going ahead but we shift focus to our next game, against Kariobangi Sharks.”

Omuri is a supporter of English Premier League side Arsenal and La Liga giants Barcelona.

“I like the two clubs first because of their style of play and giving young players a chance,” said the soft-spoken forward.

He admires Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga.

“My dream is to play professional football and also to play for the national team Harambee Stars,” he added during an interview.

He was part of the MOFA team that played in the Gothia Cup invitational under-17 tournament in Sweden in July. The team was bundled out in the quarter-finals.

“It was a good experience. It gave me good exposure and I look forward to playing professional football in Europe one day,” he said.