Proud Sammy in praise of Zoo’s impressive duo

Unlike many of their established counterparts in the top flight , Kenya Premier League side Zoo Kericho is once again turning to the grassroots to inject fresh blood in their ranks ahead of the new season.

According to Zoo head coach, Sammy Okoth, who led his side to a 12th finish in their debut season in the league, they are seeking to recruit fresh talent before heading for experienced players, a prospect that worked well for them last term.

“Before we identify experienced players that we shall bring on board, we are seeking to head to the grass roots as we seek to build a strong team,” Okoth told Citizen Digital.

Although the Kericho-based team finished at a remarkable position 12 – safe from the relegation, Okoth reveals that it has not been an easy walk for his charges, outlining the various obstacles they faced through the season.

“The season has been challenging for us given that we were visitors in the league and then came the court cases which interfered with our plans but we kept focus on our target, which was to remain in the league,” added Okoth.

And to put the icing on the cake on what has been a remarkably good season,  Zoo have been rewarded with two call ups to the national team, Harambee Stars, which is currently in camp in preparations for the Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) slated for December 3-17 in Kenya.

 Isaac Kipyegon and Nicholas Kipkurui were called to beef up the squad which is already in camp ahead of the tournament.

Kipyegon who plays in the left back role was called as replacement for the injured Gor Mahia’s Harun Shakava while Kipkurui earned a chance to beef up Stars attack following his prolific form in the league.

According to Okoth, the call up is well deserved considering the hard work they exhibited over the season. Besides, Okoth believes the duo’s meteoric rise is prove that there is abundant talent at the grass root, especially in their home turf of Kericho.