FKF Premier League (FKFPL) side Kakamega Homeboyz has been handed a massive boost following the return of defender Potiphar Odhiambo from a lengthy knee injury layoff. The right-footed centre back has been missing in action since late December last year after suffering a partial anterior cruciate ligament tear on his right knee. Odhiambo’s last appearance for the club was during the Elijah Lidonde Super Cup finals, where Homeboyz defeated AFC Leopards 1-0 to win the second edition of the tournament.His persistent nagging knee injury forced the reigning Mozzart Bet champions to seek the services of experienced defender Salim Hamisi and fast-rising utility player Salim Murunga during the mid-season transfer window in a bid to cover up for the shortage in the defensive department, which had club assistant captain Brian Eshihanda as the only fit centre back in the team.The amazing transformation of ex-footballer Joseph Kinyanjui – from an armed gangster to a crime and drug abuse fighterPrior to his injury setback, Odhiambo was a key first-team player as he partnered with Brian Eshihanda at the heart of the Homeboyz’s central defence.After three months on the sidelines, Odhiambo has fully recovered and has been cleared by the team’s medical department to resume action.The 2021 National Super League Most Valuable Player will be in contention for selection when Abana Beingo takes on Gor Mahia on Saturday in Machakos, when league action resumes after nearly a month-long break. Stepping back on the pitch has been a welcomed relief for the former Vihiga Bullets defender, who hopes to stay fit until the end of the season. “I’m very delighted to be back on the pitch after a very lengthy spell on the sidelines. It has been a challenging and mentally draining recovery journey for me, but I am glad after ninety days I have been able to find my footing back, and I’m hoping I can stay fit for the reminder of the campaign,” uttered the soft-spoken defender. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8012517##In his absence, Salim Hamisi, a mid-season signing for Homeboyz, has formed a solid partnership with Brian Eshihanda that has seen the club remain undefeated in their last six outings. However, returning Odhiambo has revealed he is not under any pressure to be back on the starting team, saying he will take his time to be fully match-fit. “Currently, the competition at the back has been tight, and I am not subjecting myself to any pressure since I am just returning. My focus is on getting match fit and gradually working my way back into the starting lineup, which I believe will happen with time,” added the NSL 2021 defender of the season.
