T. NashipaeAFC Leopards midfielder Owen Mboya itching for more playing time
Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 29.09.23. | 10:40
The midfielder was promoted to the Leopards senior team after impressing while in the junior side.
Following a challenging debut season due to injury, AFC Leopards midfielder Owen Mboya has returned with renewed determination to make mark in the senior team.
His journey from youth player to the senior squad came as a blessing in disguise, thanks to the FIFA's transfer embargo laid on AFC Leopards.
He was promoted to the senior team alongside Maxwell Otieno, Giovanni Lukhumwa,Eric Mbithi,Zachary Njite and Lamec Moendi in the 2021/22 season.
Mboya joined AFC Leopards Youth team from Pioneer School. However, his true breakthrough came during a challenging time for the club.
Ingwe found themselves in FIFA’s bad books for failing to pay former player Soter Kayumba his dues, and they were unable to bring in new players.
This situation opened the door for talented youth players like Mboya who was given a lifetime opportunity by the then gaffer Patrick Aussems to step up and prove himself on the senior stage.
Mboya's moment arrived during the 2022/23 season when he was handed his cameo against Kariobangi Sharks.
It was a dream come true for the young midfielder.
His ability to control the midfield, distribute the ball accurately, and his exceptional work rate were evident from the very beginning.
"My debut season experience I can say was phenomenal, I got the privilege of playing with one of the best players in the country, at a young age as well," he told mozzart sport.
"I also was lucky enough to fit in the team, had a smooth path with the technical bench and the players as well, they welcomed me with open arms, recognized my quality and it was wonderful. What a team!" he added.
Making his senior debut made him aspire more, and as it stands, he is not content with just a taste of the big stage. His return from injury has only fueled his desire to secure a permanent spot in Tom Juma's starting lineup.
"It feels great to finally come back and do what I love. Am doing some individual training with the technical bench and at the moment getting ready for the team training, all glory to God for my recovery because I was to undergo surgery but it healed on its own so I really thank God for that," he said.
The 21-year-old, focus on fitness and training has been unwavering as he strives to reach peak performance. He is well aware of the competition within the team, but he remains hopeful that his dedication and skill will help him earn more playing time.
"This season I first need to get into the team, hopefully I'll have my first start in the team and more playing time despite competition in the squad," Mboya added..
The youngster is still hopeful that Leopards will go back to their heydays. He is coming to light at a time when Ingwe are facing a challenging start of the 2022/23 season.
So far, the Tom Juma-coached side has managed a loss and three draws in the four games played, with fans piling pressure on the tactician to step down.
Mboya believes that with hard work, unity, and determination, they can turn the tides and climb the league standings.
"I know we will bounce back in the upcoming games and in the season, we are working hard and we will win our games, it’s all about patience," he said.
Mboya who looks up to Kenya Police midfielder maestro Francis Kahata returns alongside Victor Omune and might be available when the club welcomes newbies Shabana FC in a FKFPL match day five at Ulinzi complex on Sunday 30th, 3pm.
