Two Ugandan footballers Shafik Batambuze and Erisa Ssekisambu were among the eight new signings officially unveiled by Kenya Premier League giants Gor Mahia Football Club at the 680 Hotel, Nairobi on Monday.
The ceremony was graced by the Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier.
Left back Batambuze was acquired from Tanzanian side Singida United as Ssekisambu signed as a free agent following the expiration of his contract at Vipers.
I am happy to be at Gor Mahia Football Club and ready to serve the club
Shafik Batambuze, newly signed Gor Mahia left back
Batambuze is direct replacement for Godfrey Walusimbi who sought for greener pastures at South African side Kaizer Chiefs.
Meanwhile, Ssekisambu will vie for a slot with established forwards as replacement for Meddie Kagere who was sold off to Tanzanian side Simba.
Forward Erick Ombija a graduate from the Gor Mahia Youth team, Castro Ogendo (Midfielder from Kenyatta University), Pascal Ogweno (Defender from Kariobangi Sharks), Geoffrey Ochieng (Defender from Western Stima), Kenneth Maguna (Defender from KF Tirana) and former Zoo Kericho striker Nicholas Kipkirui were also unveiled.
We are appealing to all football fans to come out in large numbers to support Gor Mahia against the Malawians on Wednesday. It’s a big match and massive support will help the team.
On the new coach, we have received a total of 53 applications ranging from the youngest at 34 years and oldest at 65 years. We shall be looking for good communication aspect that’s English and experience in coming up with the new coach. We shall be doing the shortlisting and come up with the new coach in a weeks time. In the meantime coach Zedekiah Otieno will be in charge
Gor Mahia chairman, Ambrose Rachier
On Wednesday, Gor Mahia hosts Nyasa Big Bullets from Malawi in the first leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round at the Moi Sports Complex, Kasarani.
Gor Mahia will be led by interim head coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno.
CAF appointed match officials from Sudan to be in charge of the game. Adel Mukhutar Adam will be the centre referee and will be assisted by Haitham Elnour as the first assistant referee and Elmoiz Ali will be the second assistant referee.
Fourth official of the match will be Mutaz Albdelbasit – all from Sudan.
Match Commissioner will be Phillip Sinon from Sychelles and Referee Assessor will be Jason Joseph also coming from Sychelles.