- Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor backs Ben Stanley to step up following the departure of Austin Odhiambo.
- Odhiambo, completed a transfer to Lebanese giants Nejmeh SC on New Year’s Eve for a reported fee of Ksh 8 million.
- Speaking after the match 4-1 win at Kasarani, Akonnor praised the 21-year-old’s versatility and work rate.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has expressed full confidence in youngster Ben Stanley Omondi to take up the mantle following the departure of the club’s midfield maestro, Austin Odhiambo.
Odhiambo, the 2023/24 SportPesa League MVP affectionately known as Rolls Royce by the K’Ogalo base completed a transfer to Lebanese giants Nejmeh SC on New Year’s Eve for a reported fee of Ksh 8 million.
His exit left a creative void in the heart of the K’Ogalo midfield, but Akonnor believes the solution is already within the squad.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo completes move to Lebanon outfit Nejmeh SC
In the first match since Odhiambo’s departure, Ben Stanley Omondi silenced doubters by leading Gor Mahia to a convincing 4-1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks on Tuesday.
The Migori Youth product opened the scoring in the 20th minute with a composed finish, signaling his readiness for a more prominent role.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor backs Ben Stanley amid Odhiambo absence
Speaking after the match at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Akonnor praised the 21-year-old’s versatility and work rate.
We made some changes to the starting eleven, and I believe it paid off. Ben Stanley gives us a different dimension.
While we all know what Austin brought to this team, we have to move forward. Ben has the energy and the tactical discipline to help us maintain our rhythm. He is talented and up to the task.”
The Ghanaian tactician noted that while Omondi and Odhiambo possess different profiles, the former’s ability to play across the front line and in attacking midfield offers tactical flexibility.
Every player must work hard to my standards. Ben has shown that hunger. He isn’t just a replacement, he is a player who can define his own legacy here and make a name for himself.”
Despite his faith in Omondi, Akonnor has not ruled out further reinforcements during the January transfer window.
The club has already secured the services of Jackson Dwang from Posta Rangers and is reportedly tracking Ghanaian striker Ebenezer Kofi Assifuah to bolster their attacking options.
The record Sportpesa League champions will return to the field on Sunday at the Gusii Stadium against Shabana FC as they seek to dethrone rivals AFC Leopards at the summit of the log.