The former Gor Mahia assistant coach feels the young midfielder has shown that he is capable of taking over from experienced Wendo when he finally exits the scene
Former Gor Mahia assistant coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo believes K’Ogalo have found the perfect replacement for Ernest Wendo in Kevin Juma.
Wendo had been one of the mainstays in the Gor Mahia midfield but has seen his playing time reduced this season since the arrival of Juma from Nzoia Sugar in July.
13:31 - 25.09.2023
FKFPL McKinstry explains why Ernest Wendo started ahead of Kevin Juma in draw with Homeboyz
Gor Mahia have used Ernest Wendo sparingly since the signing of Kevin Juma from Nzoia Sugar.
The defensive midfielder has put in good performances this season alongside Rodgers Mugisha and even scored the winner against Ulinzi Stars in September, with coach Jonatan McKinstry starting him more often.
Juma is good at putting out the fires due to his calming presence in front of the defence and also drops in at centre-back to help out as an extra defender. The midfielder is also good at linking up with the attack.
14:00 - 30.07.2023
From a hot-head to mature general: Gor Mahia coach Mckinstry hails Ernest Wendo's professionalism and longevity
Wendo has evolved over his time at Gor, from being an all action box to box player who had the tendency to play on the edge, which constantly left him getting booked or sent off to being a mature player who dictates play from the middle of the park and sits in front of the defense.
The fact that he has been trusted to start in big games, especially against Tusker and AFC Leopards and still performed well, has left Pamzo impressed and he feels the midfielder is the man who will take over from Wendo eventually.
Follow Pulse Sports Kenya WhatsApp channel for more news.
“So far, they [Gor Mahia] have done a very good job, you look at the points they are collecting, some tough games but they are digging in to get the points,” said Okoth.
10:30 - 23.10.2023
FKFPL Omala’s offside goal, Trucha's stuttering start at AFC Leopards and why can't Shabana stop conceding late?
Where will AFC Leopards get a win from? Why can’t Shabana prevent conceding late equalizers and should Omala’s goal have been allowed to stand?
“I am loving the transition, [Ernest] Wendo was playing a lot of football for the last six years but the transition is super because [Kevin] Juma is coming in there and is doing a very good job covering the defence and also linking up with attack,” he added.
Pamzo also feels having both Juma and Wendo gives McKinstry quality options in central midfield as he can easily pick one when he wants an all-out attacking or include both if he wants to lock the game and protect a lead.
10:36 - 13.07.2023
TRANSFERS Gor Mahia sign Kevin Juma on long term deal as Babu's Nzoia exit is confirmed
The tactician has terminated his contract with the club he led to fourth place in the 2022/23 season.
The coach also interchanges them when he wants a different dynamic in the game as witnessed against Tusker on Sunday when he took off Juma for Wendo after the brewers started gaining some control in midfield.
Gor Mahia face Bidco United in their next match on Saturday, seeking to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.