Fast-rising Sofapaka midfielder Jack Ong’anya has opened up on how club captain Humphrey Mieno has been playing a pivotal role in helping him settle quickly at the top level of Kenyan football.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News Ong’anya is in his debut season in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) after making the leap from FKF Division One side Green Commandos.His transition to the elite level was far from smooth, but the experienced hands of Mieno have proven invaluable.##NAJAVA_MECA_8939531##He was signed by legendary coach Robert Matano, a move that offered him the rare opportunity to share the pitch with his childhood idol, Mieno.“For a young player like me, making it to the top flight and settling in quickly is never easy. I needed guidance, and Mieno has been that person for me,” Ong’anya told Mozzart Sport.The 21-year-old admitted the delay in breaking into the Premier League took a mental toll, especially as many of his age-mates had already secured top-flight deals.A near return to third-tier football loomed after unsuccessful trials with Tusker and Gor Mahia-until Sofapaka came calling.“Sofapaka believed in me, and I believed in myself. But above all, it was the support from our captain, Mieno, that made it easier to settle. He constantly talks to me on the field, giving instructions on when to attack or sit back. He’s been instrumental,” Ong’anya said.Why Kenyan youngster is on the verge of his LaLiga debutThe relationship with Mieno has extended beyond football.“We talk a lot off the pitch too. He’s shaping not just my game, but my life. He’s a huge role model,” he added, speaking affectionately of the former Tusker and AFC Leopards midfield maestro.Ong’anya has made a strong impression in his first season with nine goals and three assists from midfield, a return that shows his potential and ambition at a young age.Former AFC Leopards captain explains why Kenya Police will land FKFPL titleNow, he hopes to continue learning from Mieno and head coach Ezekiel Akwana as he sets his sights on a national team call-up, following in the footsteps of former teammates Kelly Madada and Mark Shaban.TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Numbers that make Sofapaka’s Jack Ong’aya a midfield maestro
