Former Kenyan Premier League club, Vihiga United, have embarked on a rebuilding mission following a mass exodus of first-team players.
Sources within the side revealed that the players bolted out at the end of the season after the side slumped into relegation.
Former captain Patrick Okullow leads the long list of luminaries who have severed ties with the club.
Okullow, who signed a one-year deal with Kenyan Premier League newbies Vihiga Bullets, said his decision was informed by a burning desire to maintain his status in the top-flight league.
“In life, we try our best to build our lives and the only way is to ensure we are in the Kenya Premier League. Only God knows what befell Vihiga United,”Okullow said.
“I don’t want to say much because anything is possible in the world of soccer, and I might find myself knocking the doors of Vihiga United again. As such, it's only wise that I should shut my mouth,” he added.
Okullow said they endured numerous challenges including a financial crisis that took a big toll on the morale of the entire team.
His sentiments were echoed by departed goalkeeper Mustapher Oduor who has already consolidated a first team slot at Wazito.
“I thank God I have a new two-year contract with Wazito, so for now I want to remain focused at my new station,” Oduor said in a phone interview.
Other than Okullow and Oduor, Steward Omondi and Laurance Luvanda have shifted to Tusker FC, Mike Isabwa joined Vihiga Bullets, Lesley Owino (Kenya Police) while Sammy Sindani is set to move to Talanta.
Morgan Ambuka is set to join Kisumu All Stars as well. Efforts to reach Vihiga United head coach Mike Mururi for a comment proved fruitless.