Harambee Stars Defender Lifts Lid After Conquering Academic World in England

Kenyan international defender Eugene Asike has broken silence after another prestigious feather to his cap.

The former Tusker FC captain, who now plies his trade in the English football fourth tier, successfully graduated from Brighton University in the United Kingdom with a degree in Strength and Conditioning .

The experienced Harambee Stars centre-back, known for his leadership and tactical discipline on the pitch, continues to shine off it as well.

Speaking passionately about his dual journey in football and academics, Asike revealed his motivation for returning to school while still actively playing.

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The Harambee Stars defender is inelligible to play for Kenya in the African Nations Championship, being an internationally based player.

“We are hosting the tournament so we need to show good support to the team. Turn out in numbers. Support the boys. Go Harambee Stars! I’m rooting for you guys,” Asike urged Kenyan fans while speaking on the sidelines of his academic achievement.

Currently playing in the English fourth division, Asike highlighted the challenge of juggling a professional football career while pursuing higher education.

“So far, I’ve got my degree and I’m still going to go for the master’s. Then definitely come back and give back to the young ones here, back to the community,” he said.

The former FKF Premier League (FKFPL) standout emphasized that his decision to return to school was fueled by passion and a long-term vision.

“Even when I was at Tusker and later in Sweden, I knew this is what I wanted. After my football career, I want to stay in the sports industry — to mentor young athletes, guide them on training, nutrition, and recovery.”

Asike has called for unity and support for the national team ahead of upcoming tournaments, including CHAN which is poised to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

“We need to start well. Support the boys. Support the technical bench. Support the federation,” he appealed to fans.

“Let’s do this as a nation and bring everybody together — despite the political wrangles in the country, I believe football will bring us all together.”

The defender believes Benni McCarthy's Harambee Stars has the raw talent to thrive on the continental stage.

“Kenya has a lot of football talent. It’s just a matter of tapping into the right players and supporting them. If we do that, not only in CHAN — even in AFCON 2027 — we’ll have a strong squad,” he added.