Blow for Bandari as Shabana midfielder pens new deal

Shabana FC assistant captain Justin Omwando has signed a contract extension with the Kisii-based club, Mozzart Sport sources can exclusively reveal.

The dynamic midfielder, who had an outstanding top-flight debut season with Shabana, has signed a new six-month deal, ending Bandari FC's pursuit of the player.

The Mombasa-based team was highly linked with securing Omwando's services prior to the latest development.

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The 24-year-old, who was key to Shabana's survival last season, had six months left on his initial deal with the club and will thus be with Tore Bobe for at least a year.

However, the former Migori Youth midfielder chose to stay at Shabana for the 2024/2025 FKF Premier League season, citing assured playing time as one of the primary reasons for prolonging his stay.

"It was a difficult decision to make about my next steps, especially after such a successful first season in the league.

"However, the promise of playing time and my studies, which I'll complete in December, were two of the most important aspects that I had to consider, and they made it simpler for me to stay for another season," he said.

Similarly, the box-to-box midfielder, who was Shabana's second-highest scorer in the 2023/2024 season, recognised Bandari's interest.

"It's true Bandari were seriously after my services, and I was open to it, but Shabana were equally adamant in not letting me go, and we struck a deal that will see me stay for a year," he explained.

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'Masaai', as he is known among his peers, has backed the club to improve their fortunes and avoid the relegation battle they faced the previous season.

"Indeed, we had a tough return to the league; we struggled a lot, but I am optimistic we will have a better season in the next campaign that starts next month," said the assistant captain.

Last season, the team under the stewardship of Sammy 'Pamzo' Omollo finished 15th in the 18-team league on their return to the top-flight after eighteen years of absence.