Kenyan winger seeking senior team promotion after winning Leicester City award

Kenyan winger seeking senior team promotion after winning Leicester City award

Festus Chuma 19:12 - 04.05.2024

A young Kenyan footballer has responded positively after being awarded the Development Squad Player of the Season at Leicester City.

Kenyan winger Silko Thomas Otieno has expressed immense pride and gratitude upon receiving the Men’s Development Squad Player of the Season award at Leicester City. 

The promising young forward, who has made 16 appearances this season, managed to score five goals, including a memorable brace against Leeds United in March.

Chosen by the coaching staff for his outstanding performance, Otieno did not hide his delight.

“I’m pretty buzzing to win this award," Otieno said in an interview with the Leicester City portal.

"It was tough competition, because I’m with a group of lads that are amazing on and off the pitch, so I feel privileged to get this award."

Otieno's commitment to his development at Leicester City has been evident and this award highlights the fruits of his labor.

“It’s been a tough year for all of us, but we’ve ended the season well and we’re looking forward to next season and seeing what we can achieve. I’m ready to push on,” he continued. 

"Now, looking at this award, it’s one step closer to where I want to be and I just want to keep pushing on to do better.”

Despite Leicester City finishing the PL2 season outside the second stage play-offs, they ended on a high note with back-to-back victories including a significant final-day win over second-placed West Ham United.

Otieno also had the chance to be named on the bench for the senior squad indicating his potential future involvement at higher levels of competition. 

Reflecting on his growth over the past year, Otieno sees this recognition as a springboard for future achievements. 

"It’s been a really good year of development for myself. I’m buzzing about my own performances this season, and being in the Under-18s, I’ve been pushing on to the Under-21s and the bench for the First Team, so it’s been an unreal year," Otieno elaborated.

The award ceremony itself was a moment of celebration for Otieno, who enjoys the formal aspects of such events. 

"It seems crazy to me that it’s all happening at once, but I love it. I love putting a suit on so tonight has been nice. Seeing all the people here has been great and something I want to get used to,” he concluded.

Leicester City, currently placed 20th in the 26-team PL2, faces an uphill battle in the league with 20 points from 20 games. 

The team looks forward to their upcoming participation in the HKFC Soccer Sevens tournament in Hong Kong next month.

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