Aboud Omar, a defender for Kenya Police FC, claims that one of his goals this year is to make the starting lineup for the Harambee Stars consistently.
The 30-year-old left back's final national team appearance came in a 2-1 victory for Stars over Rwanda in a World Cup qualification game in November 2021.
Omar claims that to grab head coach Engin Firat's attention this season, he will be doing all his talking on the playing field.
The veteran defender for Tusker FC is happy that Kenya has rejoined the world of international football after being suspended by Fifa in March of last year after Amina Mohamed, the then-sports cabinet secretary, dissolved the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and replaced it with a caretaker committee.
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Particularly, Omar points out that spectators may again appreciate the beautiful game while the FKF Premier League steadily recaptures its former splendour.
"Like the previous time I was in the nation, I think the league is more competitive. As opposed to past seasons, this one has seen a greater number of clubs competing for the crown. You wouldn't often anticipate a squad like Nzoia to compete for the championship", the speaker remarked.
"The lifting of the suspension on Kenya has also arrived at the perfect time," Omar continued. "Many teams are motivated and giving it their all in their games since they have a chance to compete in the continental championship".
Brand-New Afande In Town
Omar is among the new players the law enforcers have added in the recent transfer window as they attempt to win their first championship this year. Omar started in professional football with Admiral FC of Mombasa.
The left-back acknowledges that he has been a longtime fan of the "Afandes" and was easily convinced to sign on the dotted line for the team, which has won 10 games and lost four in its first 18 games.
"When I was away, I kept a careful eye on the league, and Police was one of the clubs I found intriguing. I returned home after ending my contract with my previous team (in the Greek league). Three clubs were vying for my signature, but I ultimately chose Kenya Police", the player says.
Omar claims there has been a reunion at the law enforcers, as he has reconnected with former players from the club and national levels.
He acknowledges that this has facilitated his acculturation and team integration.
He played a crucial part in Police's 3-2 victory over Kariobangi Sharks in a midweek Premier League match at Moi Stadium, Kasarani, in his first game for the team a week ago.
Omar, who took the position of David "Messi" Owino in the starting 11, was well aware that he would have to put in a lot of effort to keep his spot in the team, given the calibre of his rival.
Omar has yet to experience defeat while playing for Kenya Police following the victory over Kakamega Homeboyz over the weekend.
When the law enforcement team plays Nzoia Sugar in their upcoming game on Thursday at Sudi Stadium in Bungoma, he will be looking to extend the run.
