M. KisengeZambia based midfielder John Ochieng keen on following Ng'ang'a footsteps to Stars camp
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 16.11.23. | 19:24
Both Ng’ang’a and Ochieng joined Zanaco, a Zambian Super League outfit before the current season began from record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia
After watching his compatriot Dennis Ng’ang’a land a late Harambee Stars call-up, Zanaco midfielder John Ochieng has vowed to work harder and win the heart of coach Engin Firat heading to next year's international assignments.
Ng’ang’a was summoned to the national team two days ago following the withdrawal of two key central defenders who will miss the opening two 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gabon and Seychelles due to injuries.
Firat will have to do without the services of Joseph Okumu and Brian Mandela who are injured in the two qualifier matches set for today and Monday next week respectively.
Both Ng’ang’a and Ochieng joined Zanaco, a Zambian Super League outfit before the current season began from record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia.
Ochieng, who overcame a rocky start to life in Zambia to become a regular figure in the Zanaco midfield told Mozzart Sport that earning his first-ever call-up to the national team is part of his new year’s resolutions.
“His call up to the national team is a source of motivation for me. It will push me to work harder,” said the midfielder.
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Commonly known as Champe, Ochieng, and Ng’ang’a left Gor with their heads high after helping the club bag a record-extending 20th league title last season.
The role they played in wrestling the gong from the hands of Tusker caught the attention of Zanaco who landed their signatures.
Ochieng believes that the Zambian league is a stepping stone to greater opportunities even as he hopes to lace it with a number of national team caps.
“I am enjoying football in Zambia. I did not have the best start but I am glad to be playing on a regular basis. Having Ng’ang’a with me at the club and other Kenyan boys who are attached to other clubs helped me settle. I hope to use this platform and propel myself to the next level,” said the former Chemelil Sugar midfielder.
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