- Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has highlighted discipline as the key quality players such as Siraj Mohammed must embrace to earn playing time this season.
- Siraj featured briefly on Sunday during Gor Mahia’s 3–0 victory over Mara Sugar at Nyayo Stadium.
- The left-back has had limited opportunities, with emerging star Bryton Onyona delivering impressive performances in his position.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has spoken out, emphasizing that discipline remains the key principle some players including Siraj Mohammed, must embrace to earn meaningful minutes this season.
His remarks follow his decision to grant the newly signed Mohammed a brief appearance on Sunday, as the team defeated Mara Sugar 3–0 at Nyayo Stadium, propelling them to the top of the SportPesa League table.
Since joining the record champions at the start of the season after gaining attention during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya hosted and reached the quarterfinals, the former Bandari FC defender has struggled to break into Akonnor’s plans.
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Despite regularly being named in match days’ squads, Siraj has struggled to secure playing time.
Speaking to Azam Sports after Sunday’s match, the Ghanaian coach emphasized that while they aim to provide opportunities, discipline remains essential, and every squad member must adhere to the team’s standards.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor highlights discipline as the key quality for players
We want to give everybody time to build their confidence, but players have to be disciplined. If you are not disciplined in terms of what we demand, you will definitely find yourself excluded,” Akonnor stated.
His comments were widely interpreted as directed at Siraj, adding that the 26-year-old must demonstrate greater commitment in training to secure more minutes in upcoming matches provided he meets expectations.
Today was a very good opportunity for Siraj. Even though it was a short appearance, he got a feel of the game, which was positive. I hope in the coming matches he will get more chances, but he has to be serious in training and do the right things,” Akonnor added.
The left-back has seen limited action this season, with rising talent Bryton Onyona impressing in his position.
Siraj was introduced only in the 89th minute, replacing Onyona during Sunday’s fixture.
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Meanwhile, other players who have yet to see substantial minutes include former AFC Leopards defender and captain Lewis Bandi.
Despite Akonnor previously indicating that Bandi was nearing a return from an injury sustained during the CHAN tournament, the player has been absent from matchday squads, not even making the bench in recent games.