Combative midfielder John “Champe” Ochieng recently announced that he was leaving Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) giants Gor Mahia sparking speculations over what might have prompted the decision.
Fresh from helping K’Ogalo win a record 20th FKFPL title, his first major trophy, Champe, who joined the coach Johnathan McKinstry’s side from the defunct Chemelil Sugar FC in September 2020, was expected to stay and feature in the CAF Champions League.
Yet, McKinstry, in a One-On-One interview with award winning journalist Jeff Kinyanjui, revealed that the 22-year-old requested to leave.
“John (Ochieng) requested his release from the club,” the former Uganda Cranes gaffer revealed.
According to the Irishman, the player needs more playing time which he could not guarantee him.
“We think John is a player with a huge amount of potential, he’s also a player who wants to play, and at this point in time we don’t guarantee anybody a starting place.
Under McKinstry, Ochieng was sparingly used – on many occasions, coming on as a substitute.
He faced competition for game time from the experienced Ernest Wendo who is among the longest-serving players at the club currently.
“John felt that at this time in his career he wanted more certainty of a starting eleven place, and that’s something we couldn’t give him, and we wish him all the very best,” McKinstry added.
The player has been linked with an opportunity abroad, however, he’s still within the country.
McKinstry hinted that they will strengthen the squad including in the midfield where John has left a void. “We’ll be announcing your new signings next week,” he stated.
