Tusker FC speedy winger Eric Zakayo is prepared to fight for his place in the team as he strives to secure a spot in coach Robert Matano’s starting lineup.Matano handed Zakayo a rare starting berth in their match against Muranga Seal on Sunday, and Zakayo responded with an impressive performance down the flanks, showcasing dangerous dribbles and crosses in the opposition box.##NAJAVA_MECA_8094875##Throughout most of the season, Zakayo has not been a regular for the brewers, with the technical bench often favoring him as a substitute to inject more speed and urgency into the attack as opponents fatigue. However, Zakayo believes he is ready and capable of starting matches.“I feel really good to have started the game against Muranga Seal. I have always kept myself ready, waiting for my chance to help the team. I took it when it came, and I believe I helped the team, which is the most important thing for me,” Zakayo stated.Despite his personal aspirations, Zakayo emphasizes the importance of the team’s performance and is determined, along with his teammates, to push for success this season. He remains optimistic about Tusker’s title chase, believing that in football, nothing is impossible, and there may be opportunities for Tusker to seize.NSL: Benedict Wanjala talks Mara Sugar project, MCF snub and reason behind recent fine runAs a product of Tusker’s youth team, Zakayo feels a responsibility to succeed as a means of motivating others coming from the same background, showcasing that with hard work, they too can achieve their goals.“For every player, there is always the need to grow. Every player has to have that urge, so when they see that one of their teammates from the academy has been promoted to the senior team or any other club, it motivates them to work hard as they wait for their time,” Zakayo affirmed.Zakayo’s popularity among Tusker fans is evident, with jubilation and cheers greeting him whenever he enters the field or executes his trademark dribbles past defenders. His style of play has even earned him the nickname “Di Maria” after the Argentine star, a moniker that he finds flattering and motivating.“It motivates me and makes me work harder because you can’t get their support if you are not doing the right thing. The more you do the right thing, the more they like you, but as I said, the most important thing is the team,” Zakayo explained.Looking ahead, Zakayo aims to retain his place in the starting 11 when Tusker faces Nairobi City Stars in their upcoming midweek fixture.Stars Abroad: Olunga’s brace inspires Al Duhail to Amir Cup semi-final
