Kariobangi Sharks players during a past match.[Photo/futaa.com]
Kariobangi Sharks started the process of building a side without their star striker Masoud Juma.
The 2017 Kenyan Premier League Golden Boot winner moved to South Africa’s Premier Soccer League side Cape Town City in the beginning of this month.
And with that war chest, Sharks have quickly roped in 11 players, three of them strikers.
Kariobangi Sharks coach William Muluya did show confidence that they would emulate their fine run last season in both the Kenyan Premier League and the GOtv Shield.
“It’s a good challenge because it opens up a way for another person to try fill up his (Juma) shoes. We’ve acquired few strikers we believe will come up and partner Sanneh (Ebrima) and Ovellah (Ochieng’) whom we had from last season,” said Muluya after Thursday’s morning training session at Utalii Sports Club.
Muluya led the team to a third place finish in the KPL and runners up in the GOtv Shield.
“If they step up and play as a unit, we will overcome the challenge. Last year, we had one person with 17 goals and he left for greener pastures so we need to distribute those goals amongst other players.”
"That will only come if everyone works hard and I’m sure with players we have now, they will share responsibility and help the team.”
The new faces are Brian Bwire, James Mazembe and Henry Juma (Kakamega High school), Sydney Simale (Nakuru AllStars), Brian Juma (Liberty Sports Academy), Vincent Wasambo and Samuel Semo (recalled from loan at FC Talanta), Harrison Mwendwa (Mathare United), Eric Kapaito (FC Talanta), Gad Matthews (Palos) and Shaphan Oyugi (Chemelil Sugar).
The 11 who left are Masoud Juma (Cape Town City, South Africa), Matthew Odongo (Tusker), Elli Asieche and Ibrahim Kitawi (Sofapaka), Osborne Monday and Calvin Odongo (Posta Rangers), Rodgers Omondi, Malcom Oigo, Steven Odhiambo, Newton Mugo and Kevin Ndung’u.