KCB head coach Patrick Odhiambo has conceded that the exit of first-choice goalkeeper Faruk Shikalo is a big blow in their bid to land a title this season.Shikalo caught many by surprise, after ditching KCB for his former side Bandari, on Thursday just a few hours before the closure of the mid-season transfer window.Given the playing time and the fact that KCB is regarded as one of the best-paying teams, Shikalo was not expected to leave the club.##NAJAVA_MECA_8737248##Further, the emerging reports of the return of Bandari first-choice goalkeeper, Bryne Omondi, from injury were thought to at least slow talks between the Dockers and the player, if not to collapse them.However, Bandari robbed the Bankers leaving Odhiambo with the difficult task of beefing the goalkeeping department.’This is our year’ – Cheche confident of Kenya Police winning all major trophiesThe soft-spoken tactician reserved kind words for Shikalo and at the same time revealed the circumstances surrounding his departure.“It is a big blow for us to lose such a good goalkeeper and at such a crucial stage in the season. He asked to leave and we had to free him since we do not believe in keeping unhappy players. The demands are high and that’s why you need committed players,” said Odhiambo, who has also worked with Shikalo at Kakamega Homeboyz.Despite admitting the loss of Shikalo would potentially dent their title hunt, the former Gor Mahia assistant coach expressed optimism in filling in the gap.Beldine Odemba responds to Harambee Starlets critics after jetting back from TunisiaHe also challenged the duo of Bonhpas Munyasa and Brian Opiyo, who regularly offered Shikalo support and competition from the bench, to ensure the goalkeeping standards, at the club, do not plummet.“I am confident that we will get a quality replacement. His exit should be a challenge to the other goalkeepers at the club, to step up. They are equal to the task and experienced enough to succeed Faruk. There is a reason why Munyasa has Harambee Stars caps while Brian has featured for our junior teams, and respected teams in the league,” added Odhiambo.
