Zech Obiero © courtesy
Zech Obiero © courtesy

Harambee Stars midfielder opens up on emotional spell at Tranmere Rovers after relegation battle survival

Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 03.05.26. | 14:21

Obiero joined the League Two side at the start of February from Leyton Orient, where he had already made eight appearances before making the temporary switch in search of more playing time

Harambee Stars midfielder Zech Obiero has opened up on his loan spell with Tranmere Rovers, describing it as a crucial chapter in his young career after helping the club avoid relegation from EFL League Two.

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Obiero joined the League Two side at the start of February from Leyton Orient, where he had already made eight appearances before making the temporary switch in search of more playing time.

The Kenyan midfielder was among a trio of deadline-day arrivals brought in to strengthen Tranmere’s survival fight.

Rovers signed Walsall midfielder Lewis Warrington on a permanent two-and-a-half-year deal.

At the same time, Obiero arrived on loan alongside Mansfield Town forward Max Dickov and Oxford United defender Stephan Negru until the end of the season.

The move turned out to be a fruitful one for Obiero, who went on to enjoy an impressive spell at Prenton Park.

The Harambee Stars midfielder featured in 13 matches, making 11 starts, and earned his senior national team debut during the same period.

He scored twice for Rovers, including a stunning effort against Oldham Athletic that earned him the League Two Goal of the Month award for March 2026.

After producing a brilliant Cruyff turn near the corner flag to create space, the midfielder curled an unstoppable effort into the top corner in what was widely described as a sublime finish.

He also found the back of the net against Crawley Town to further show his growing influence at the club.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Kenyan international admitted that his short stay at Tranmere had left a lasting impression on him.

I am really enjoying it here. The fans are showing me a lot of love, a lot of support. The team, obviously, the boys are really good with me, the manager. I am really enjoying my time,” said Obiero.

The Leyton Orient loanee explained that his main objective was to get regular minutes and repay the faith Tranmere had shown in him through strong performances on the pitch.

“I came here to get minutes and show what I am about and hopefully continue to help the team with performances. I am very grateful for the platform that Tranmere has given me.

Obiero further revealed that despite being at the club on a short-term deal, he quickly developed a strong emotional connection with the team.

“Even though I am on loan and have just come in for the back end of the season, it does not change how I feel about the club because, again, as I have said, they have given me the platform to show what I can do, so I need to pay them back with my performances and how I am on the pitch.”

The midfielder also admitted that the relegation battle became deeply personal to him as he sought to protect both his career and the club’s pride.

So, of course, it means a lot to me. Even for my career, no one wants relegation on their CV, so it is personal pride as well as the pride of the club, and of course, I am going to try my best and be out there and help the team.”

Tranmere eventually secured survival on the final day of the season after a tense 1-1 draw against Grimsby Town left them two points above the relegation zone.

Although Obiero was sidelined for the decisive clash, he now returns to Leyton Orient having completed his mission at Prenton Park.


tags

Tranmere RoversZech ObieroEFL League TwoHarambee StarsStars Abroad

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