Gor Mahia provides injury update on Rooney, Philemon, Kaddu and Bayisenge ahead of Mashemeji derby

Gor Mahia provides injury update on Rooney, Philemon, Kaddu and Bayisenge ahead of Mashemeji derby

Mark Kinyanjui 19:08 - 20.04.2024

Johnathan McKinstry has issued injury updates on Rooney Onyango, Philemon Otieno, Patrick Kaddu, and Emery Bayisenge.

Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry has provided an injury update on his squad ahead of the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards on Sunday 21 April at Nyayo Stadium, with kick-off set for 3:00 PM.

In a media briefing, McKinstry confirmed that team captain Philemon Otieno will miss out on the derby due to an ongoing injury concern. Additionally, Patrick Kaddu and Emery Bayisenge will also be sidelined for the clash against AFC Leopards due to injuries.

"Philemon Otieno is nursing an injury and will not be available for selection for the Mashemeji Derby. Patrick Kaddu, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury, is around 80% fit, while Emery Bayisenge might need more time to regain full fitness," McKinstry explained.

Despite these setbacks, McKinstry offered some positive news regarding Rooney Onyango's fitness. Onyango, who sustained an injury during Gor Mahia's recent FKF Premier League match against Nzoia, has returned to training and is in contention for selection.

"Rooney Onyango suffered a bad tackle in our previous match, but he has resumed training and should be available for selection," McKinstry added.

Reflecting on the team's overall readiness for the derby, McKinstry expressed confidence in his squad's ability to rise to the occasion and showcase their dominance against AFC Leopards.

"Everyone else is fit and ready. There's a lot of competition in training, and the players are eager to play. We have been preparing diligently for this fixture over the past few weeks," McKinstry stated.

Highlighting the significance of the Mashemeji Derby as a platform to showcase Kenyan football, McKinstry urged fans to come out in large numbers to support their teams and make the event a memorable one.

“This is a showcase game for the league, with TV cameras capturing the action. It's not just Kenya that will be watching, but the whole of East Africa and Africa.

"I encourage fans, whether you support Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, or neutrals, to come out, bring your family, and let's fill the stadium. Let's show Africa what Kenyan football is all about," McKinstry appealed to the supporters.