Tusker player of the month Khamati eyes KPL title

Michael Khamati has set his sights on winning the title and emerging the top scorer for Kenyan Premier League (KPL) leaders, Tusker FC, but admits matching the tally of last season’s Golden Boot winner, Jesee Were of 22 could prove to out of reach.

The former AFC Leopards striker was speaking after being named the winner of the Tusker Player of the Month on Tuesday, succeeding his captain, James Situma who won the gong in May.

“There can only be one Jesse Were. My playing style is different and the best I can do is work hard on the pitch give it my all and hope maybe my performances can match what he achieved last season,” Khamati told Citizen Digital.

Were left the Ruaraka-based side at the end of last season to sign with Zambia league giants, Zesco where he has continued banging in the goals.

His replacement bagged two goals and the same number of assists in May were essential in the Brewers closing the first leg of the season as KPL mid season champions as they aim at bagging a first league title since 2012.

“I am obviously very pleased at being the fourth player to be handed this award by the club and I’d like to thank the technical bench and my team mates who have been instrumental in my performances this season and without their support and motivation I would not be where I am right now,” the elated Khamati added.

The forward who had netted six time thus far was handed the award together with a Kshs 50,000 voucher which the club emphasized was a way of rewarding sportsmanship, excellence and discipline on and off pitch.

Khamati emphasised he was focused on helping Tusker remain top of the log and match their first half performance when the season resumes in July besides aiming at getting a call-up to Harambee Stars.

“It’s a player’s dream to get that chance to represent your country and the call up I think depends on a player’s performances at club level if you put in work and remain consistent then the opportunity will present itself eventually,” he explained.

Head Coach Paul Nkata promised the team was in a formidable form and would reward its fans with best results at the end of the season.

Tusker lead the KPL log going into the second leg of the season with 29 points from 15 games.

Report by Eric Kagunda