Omurwa attributes his football success to Shakava
Harambee Stars defender Johnstone Omurwa attributes his steady rise in football to Gor Mahia captain Harun Shakava who after spotting him play in Amalenga, Kakamega, facilitated his move to premier league side Wazito FC.
The interesting revelation by one of the country’s promising defender was revealed to PD Wikendi in an exclusive interview.
Omurwa a former Mathare United player has been one of the standout local players in recent times both on the league front and the national team.
Speaking to People Sport, the hard tackling defender praised Shakava’s constant advises for having an impact on his career thus far.
“He is someone I can sincerely call a role model because of what he has done for me in my development as a player, straight from my school days.
He helped me secure my first contract at Wazito in 2017 under Frank Ouna and since then my graph has been growing steadily,” Omurwa said.
He added: “What I like most with him is his directness and genuine attitude. These are the kind of people you need around as a player and frankly I am glad we are good friends,”said Omurwa of his friend and league rival.
Shakava recently returned to Gor for a second sting and was once again awarded the arm band after having a short spell in Zambia, discovered the young Omurwa during school games in Kakamega, where he begun honing his skills while at Butere High School.
According to Omurwa, it is that moment that he made an effort to prosper and with the help of Shakava, he blossomed a great deal.
“First off all, both of us hail from Amalemba in Kakamega County and then we all play as central defenders.
This gives us similarities but more importantly it is our closeness that has made me learn so much from my senior in the game,” Omurwa who is serving a national team suspension after being sent off against Egypt in a Afcon qualifier last month, said.
He added: “Honestly the guy is like a father figure to me because he brought me to Nairobi, took me for trials and introduced me to the people who care about football.
He has played a very huge role in mentoring me. Even on national team engagements, he calls to give me advice prior to a game, which shows he cares.”
Omurwa 22, also credits his single mother for having a big impact in his life, especially after he lost his father at an early age.
“Our mother has been our rock and did all in her power to make sure we got food on the table despite all the challenges she faced.
For me, I can say I learnt the virtue of patience and hard work which has gotten me to where I am.
It is my hope that I can continue on that path so that I can excel and get good offers in the professional leagues in the near future,”quipped the Real Madrid supporter who loves movies, reading novels and a good sleep.
