Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano has exuded confidence in his squad saying he is ready for a third back to back title, once the Kenya Premier League resumes.
Coach Matano expressed satisfaction with the form his players exhibited during the just concluded week-long training camp in Kericho, where they garnered positive results in all the four friendly matches they played.
“I’m happy with the progress of the team and now I know the players very well. If the league begins today, I will have an idea of who is going to be in the starting lineup,” Matano said.
“I have a clear picture of the team. Those four matches have given me a chance to evaluate every player’s performance in the last four matches.
According to the tactician, he mainly tested his players on strength and endurance during the preseason encounters.
“The fitness levels are ok. I was interested to know if we can play four matches without getting tired. I want to make sure we have the level of fitness needed to take us through the whole season,” Matano said.
“Next, we will focus on the organization of the team and get to know who will make the final squad. All in all, I’m happy now because I know my team well enough.”
Matano further extended his appreciation to their shirt sponsors for facilitating their trip to Kericho and hoped the trend will continue as it was vital in general team building.
“I’m happy with the preparations because, for a long time, we’ve not had a training camp. The management should continue doing this more often to bring the players together. The players need to work as a family and bond all the time,” Matano said.
“When we train in Nairobi, we usually go away immediately after training and there is hardly time to bond and know each other. We usually don’t have enough time together as a football family.
“So, the training camp in Kericho has given us a good time. The atmosphere in Kericho was fantastic. It was a very good place to be because of the environment. I’m happy.”
He, however, challenged squad members who did not live up to expectations during the training camp, to work extra hard so as to be considered for league fixtures.