Kenyan flag bearers at the forthcoming Caf Confederation Cup, Kenya Police, are stockpiling their weaponry in readiness for the continental campaign that unfolds next month.
The National Police Service outfit will hold a brief for the nation at Africa’s second-biggest inter-club showpiece after garnishing their cabinet with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup in the preceding season.
And after guiding Police to the Cup title and a respectable third-place finish in the Kenyan Premier League last season, the law enforcers head coach, Salim Babu is oozing with confidence ahead of the club’s maiden appearance on the big stage.
In an interview on Wednesday, the Kenya Under-18 head coach pledged to steer his charges to a vicious title charge in their debut continental season.
The talent-laden squad heightened their preparations on Thursday at the Police Sacco stadium after resuming training on Monday following a short break.
“We have already tasted victory. We appreciate the thrill that comes with it. We aim to advance past the preliminary stage of the Caf Cup. I believe we have adequate personnel to accomplish this and even go beyond,” Babu stated.
Despite the club’s enviable star-studded roster of Kenya’s most celebrated talent, Babu rummaged through the market and fished out an additional workforce to bolster his aspirations for the continental title.
“We’ve brought in a couple of fresh legs because the Caf competition is a different ball game that will require a large pool of players that can provide us with more selection options,” Babu remarked.
“We are leaving no stone unturned. Some areas need to be addressed urgently, and we are in the market to do so.”
Police raided KPL rivals for fresh talent, with Posta Rangers suffering the most after losing four of its stars to the silverware-thirsty side.
Experienced custodian Samuel Njau and midfielders Jackson Macharia, and Brian Babu have all switched allegiance to Police after a stellar season with the Mailmen.
The enterprising offensive midfield duo of Eric Zakayo and Jaffar Owiti have also joined from Tusker FC and AFC Leopards, respectively.
Meanwhile, three-time KPL champions Ulinzi Stars confirmed Danstun Nyaudo as the new head coach after sending Anthony ‘Modo’ Kimani packing on Tuesday.
The soldiers have also incorporated the services of former Harambee Stars custodian Francis Onyiso as goalkeeper trainer, while the duo of Fadhili Yaya and Hamisi Abdalla will deputise Nyaudo.
