Injured Mathare skipper Wise to return to training next week

Mathare United captain George ‘Wise’ Owino is expected back in training next week.

Owino sustained a hairline fracture on his ankle during the side’s 1-0 loss to Wazito FC on April 21, and has been out for close to three weeks.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Owino confirmed he is having a steady recovery.

“It has been tough for me as a player, you always want to be out there to help your team, but I’m happy the recovery process has been smooth,” he said.

Owino has been an important cog in the ‘Slum Boys’ defence, especially last season when they were fighting relegation, his leadership on and off the pitch delivering the perfect steam in their fight to safety.

“We are having a great season so far and we are hoping to continue fighting for the title as we have always wished,”he added.

“It’s my prayer that we will remain committed to the cause until the end of season, we have a great squad that can fight for titles with the rest of the big teams.”

Mathare have had a strong start this term, occupying position two on the 18-team log, and the Mathare skipper is expected to play an even bigger role if they are to challenge Gor Mahia’s stranglehold.

The ‘Slum Boys’ are  yet to win a match in the absence of the veteran defender, having drawn 2-2 against K’Ogalo, followed by another battling 1-1 against Kariobangi Sharks, and a 0-0 outcome against  Bandari FC.

But despite the slow run, there isn’t cause for alarm for coach Francis Kimanzi who believes it is just a matter of time before they bounce back to their winning ways.

“Owino will be back soon.He had a good rest and he can have a bigger impact in the second round,” the veteran tactician said of his captain.

Mathare will next face Vihiga United at Ruaraka grounds on Saturday at 3pm.