City Stars TM Neville Pudo is dead

Kenyan Premier League Side City Stars has been thrown into mourning following the sudden demise of long-serving team manager Neville “Ovi” Oduor Pudo on Friday morning.

Club Chief Executive Officer Patrick Korir confirmed that Pudo passed at his house while preparing for this afternoon’s match pitting KCB and City Stars at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

“His passing away has caught everyone unprepared because until yesterday he was participating in the team’s preparation for today’s game against KCB. It is a huge loss to both the City Stars and football at large,” mourned Korir.

Club chairman Peter Jabuya says the club has lost a stalwart whose contribution to their success will be dearly missed.

“It is with regret and sorrow to receive the news of Pudo’s passing on. He was truly a kind person. Words can’t quite describe this sad feeling. I give my condolences to the entire family. God rest his soul.” said Jabuya.

His sentiments were echoed by club director Samson who mourned the late as an indispensable part of the team’s backroom staff.

“Pudo was like a father to all of us and his advice helped the team a great team. He served the club faithfully and his effort kept the team afloat even during the turbulent times.”

Pudo who has been with Hope Center based side since 2014 was an integral cog in the team’s sensational return to Kenya big time soccer last season following their relegation in 2016.

He is a former a striker at Black Mamba and Kenya Breweries (now Tusker). Back in May 1978 he was part of Jonathan Niva coached Kenya National team squad that featured in the Presidents Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia alongside the hosts, South Korea and Pakistan.

Part of his highs at City Stars included being named the Premier League team manager of the year at the close of the 2015 season, and in leading the club back to top tier in 2020 after four seasons in the lower reaches.

Additional report by Nairobi City Stars