Matano explains why KCB's Djiboutian forward is struggling
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 06.03.26. | 10:22
Feargod arrived in January from South Sudanese outfit Al Merreikh Bentiu with high expectations that he would fix the Bankers’ scoring struggles
KCB FC head coach Robert Matano has defended new signing Samuel Feargod amid growing criticism over the striker’s slow start, insisting the forward simply needs time to regain full match fitness.
Feargod arrived in January from South Sudanese outfit Al Merreikh Bentiu with high expectations that he would fix the Bankers’ scoring struggles from the first half of the season.
Instead, the Djibouti international has endured a difficult opening spell, failing to convert chances and at times looking off the pace in pressing and link-up play.
His performances have sparked debate among supporters, but Matano believes the problem is physical rather than technical.
Speaking after KCB’s 1-1 draw against Nairobi United on Wednesday, the veteran tactician revealed that the striker joined the club after a period of inactivity and is still playing catch-up.
“He came late, and where he came from, he was not training. We cannot blame him much because he lacks fitness. He is behind in terms of fitness, and physically, he is not ready,” said Matano.
The coach, however, is confident the forward will come good once he reaches the required levels.
“We are building him gradually. I have seen him in training, and he is someone who can do better once he gets to the same fitness level as the others.”
KCB’s frustrations were evident against Nairobi United, especially after goalkeeper Bernard Jairo was sent off for handling the ball outside the box. Despite enjoying a man advantage for over an hour, the Bankers failed to find a winner.
Matano did not hide his disappointment.
“When a player gets the chances we got and does not score, what else can I do as a coach? We had clear chances, but we did not take them. That means we are lacking quality in front of the goal. We are doing everything right, but if you do not take your chances, you only have yourself to blame.”
The FKF Premier League will pause this weekend for the Mozzart Bet Cup Round of 32 fixtures, after which KCB returns to league action with a home match against Murang’a Seal.
