Former Kenyan international goalkeeper David Okello has revealed that he is at peace following his decision to retire from playing football after a career spanning 18 years.Since officially starting out at the now defunct Thika United in 2004, after being nurtured at Mathare United’s youth systems, the 37-year-old called time to his career before commencement of the 2022/2023 Football Kenya Federation Premier League following stints that saw him play his trade at Tusker, Sofapaka, Mathare United and KCB among others.Reflecting on his career that saw the custodian clinch the league title in 2016 with Tusker as well as finishing third in the Golden Glove race behind winner Patrick Matasi and runner up Bonface Oluoch, Okello stated the hard decision to retire was made easier considering the fact he had achieved whatever constituted to success locally.“As a player, I have won the league which is the biggest thing in the country. I also have additional local cups and trophies which makes me feel proud not to have walked into retirement empty handed.##NAJAVA_MECA_6745602##The dream for Kenyan players is to make it to the national team and to win the league both of which I achieved. I only stopped playing for Harambee Stars in 2012 and with the achievements I have, I can say I do not have any regrets,” the player told Mozzart Sport.Additionally, Okello, who will now transition into a goalkeeper coach at former side Sofapaka after being picked to replace the experienced Sunil Shah, revealed why he thought the right time for his retirement had approached.Harambee Starlets ace makes UEFA Champions League debut for new Czech side“The journey was tough with challenges along the way obviously but it also took me through highs in my career since my debut in 2004. I had thought about this retirement for quite a while to be honest because there are also other top talents emerging from schools who have the energy and need that space to showcase their talents,” he said.The player turned coach will be tasked with grooming the quartet of Mathias Kigonya, Kevin Omondi, Simon Masaka and David Obasanjo who will all be jostling for game time in the new campaign.Odada’s Philadelphia book MLS Cup finals slot
