Thiong’o: Move to Leopards is dream come true
Shortly after confirming that he is headed to AFC Leopards, speedy winger Peter Thiong’o has revealed his childhood love for the football giants and described the move as career defining.
Thiong’o who has been a thorn in the flesh of many defenders in the Kenyan Premier League due to his electrifying pace says the decision to move to Leopards was easy since most of his friends and relatives are ardent fans of the club.
Lost glory
Speaking to People Sport, the former St Joseph’s Secondary school, Nakuru County, star reflects that he had realised that for him to achieve his ambition of playing for the senior national football team Harambee Stars, the best move was to join a club in the calibre of AFC Leopards.
“I had a strong belief right from my days at St Joseph’s that one day I will get the opportunity to play for the former KPL champions who I believe are on the right track in trying to redeem their lost glory.
“I understand the competition for the starting position will not come easy but I am ready to battle and fight for it through hard work. However for me, what matters most is the teamwork spirit.
This is one club with a massive following and a lot of expectations but I am mentally prepared. Sometimes it’s good to undergo such pressure as it’s good for the future.
I take it as a major motivation. It is also good for adapting to high-level competition,’’ said Thiong’o.
Great honour
He was full of praise for Kakamega Homeboyz boss Nicholas Muyoti, terming him a great coach with a lot of passion and great knowledge that is good for players’ development.
“While he was still handling Nzoia FC he spotted and nearly signed me before we met at Kakamega Homeboyz where he has helped me by imparting useful skills and making me mentally strong.
“Our local football is on the rise and these are the attributes we require as players. It was a great honour working under him, but it’s good to experience challenges elsewhere,” added Thiong’o.
He revealed that his objective is to help Ingwe win titles as he believes the club under the leadership of Dan Shikanda is doing the right thing to achieve this.
AFC Leopards boss Anthony Kimani has touted Thiong’o to shine at the club and realise his full potential.
