By OUR CORRESPONDENT
After surviving relegation from the FKF Premier League by a whisker, Kisii-based Shabana FC will overhaul their squad ahead of next season.
The club is set to release up to 20 players from the current squad. The club currently has 35 players on their roster.
A source at the club said they will retain between 10 and 15 players. “We have started planning our squad before we head for a pre-season. Expect major changes in the team in the coming weeks,” said a source.
The source added: “We want to have a squad of about 25 players. Last season we had a bloated squad but this time we want to have a lean squad.” The club is also expected to beef up its technical bench.
It’s unclear whether they will retain coach Sammy Pamzo Omollo who helped the club avoid relegation.
Club captain George Onyango hailed the club’s loyal fans for supporting the club the entire season. “Thank you for being with us the whole season. We are looking forward to a great 2024/25 season,” said Onyango.
Club secretary General Elizaphan Kerama also paid tribute to the 12th man. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire Shabana fraternity for their unwavering support throughout the season,” said Kerama.
He added: “The efforts have been instrumental in not only lifting the team out of relegation but securing a strong and respectable finish in the league.”
He admitted that the 2023/24 season has been arduous, and filled with many challenges.
“However, we have emerged stronger and more determined. The lessons learned have been valuable,” he noted.
Further, he added the club will embark on a serious pre-season from July ahead of next season’s kick-off which is expected to be on August 10. “We expect to have intense pre-season and strategic planning,” said Kerama.
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