Tusker's potent new wing-wizard Kibande promises to propel team to glory

©Timothy Olobulu

FOOTBALL Tusker's potent new wing-wizard Kibande promises to propel team to glory

Mark Kinyanjui 18:23 - 09.08.2023

Kibande signed for Tusker after a revival of his career back at Nzoia Sugar following a frustrating spell at Kenya Police

Tusker’s new wing wizard James Kibande is a man on a mission to help the club make amends for their near miss at missing out on both the league title and FKF Cup at the final hurdle.

Kibande, 25, returned to Nzoia Sugar on loan from Kenya Police FC in mid-season.

The speedstar had joined Police at the start of the season but opted for a return to Nzoia midway through in search of playing time. He had joined The Suger Millers straight from St. Anthony’s High School, Kitale, in 2018.

“I feel very good and I am enjoying (my stay so far). I was very determined to come to this team and now I feel very good having signed,” Kibande told the club’s media.

Kibande has expressed optimism he will do well at the club, having received assured backing from his own fans.

“I feel fantastic. Even my fans told me that I had made a wise choice making the move. My parents also supported the decision and encouraged me to come and hit the ground running.”

“I thought my performances (at Nzoia Sugar) merited me making a step up to a bigger club and when the opportunity arose, I decided to come here in order to gain new challenges.”

Kibande says that the Tusker family have welcomed him with open arms, as he has fitted seemingly to the camaraderie created within the dressing room, which has allowed him to settle at the club.

“I have trained with the team and I feel very great. People welcomed us well. My new teammates have been very accommodating and I am looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

The speedy winger,  who featured in 15 league games for the Bungoma-based Millers,  netted five goals in 19 matches during the preceding season.

He believes he can carry on that momentum to the Brewers, which will help the club achieve their targets.

“This season, expect us to score goals and assists and I will make sure that this team’s performance will get even better.

“I just want to score goals and become the best player. I expect to score seven plus goals this season.

“The fans should expect me to fight for the badge , and that is exactly what I am going to do.”

Tusker are currently in Arusha, Tanzania, stepping up preparations for the new season.