Migori Youth head coach Salim Babu has admitted that the absence of midfielder Vincent Otieno has disrupted his plans for the club’s debut season in the FKF Premier League.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsOtieno joined the newly promoted side on a season-long loan from Tusker but is yet to make his competitive debut after suffering a recurring knee injury that required surgery in April.BETTING GUIDE: Gor Mahia vs Bandari, match preview, team news and predictionThe attacking midfielder sustained a meniscus injury last season and has since struggled to regain full fitness, with his return date yet to be established.Babu had hoped to utilise Otieno’s experience to strengthen the midfield and provide stability as Migori navigate their first top-flight campaign.##NAJAVA_MECA_10055723##However, his continued absence has forced the tactician to adjust his plans, with U20 midfielder Harmvin Okoth stepping in during their 1-1 draw against Kenya Police FC in their season opener.“Vincent’s absence has really cost us and affected our planning for the season. We brought him in to utilise his experience in midfield and stabilise the team, so it is a big miss. BETTING GUIDE: Ulinzi Stars vs Mara Sugar, match preview, team news and predictionWe have to reorganise ourselves, and as a coach, it is one of the toughest situations to find yourself in. However, I am glad the other players are stepping up, and hopefully they will fill the void.”Otieno, meanwhile, has opened up about the mental toll of his latest setback, admitting that his prolonged recovery has been difficult after undergoing surgery six months ago.##NAJAVA_MECA_10055733##“The situation has not been easy on me, as it has greatly affected me mentally. I am not as fit as I was before the latest setback, but I have been doing my best to get my knee ready for the job, and I am hopeful I will return to the pitch soon,” he said.“I feel bad that I cannot help my team when they need my services the most. So far, I can say I am getting better; there is a lot of improvement, and I have hope that all will be well.”Gor Mahia vice-chair calls on FKF to subsidize floodlight costs as night matches gain popularityMigori Youth will be without the midfielder again when they host Mathare United at Awendo Green Stadium on Saturday, 24 October, as Babu continues to adjust his midfield options.
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