Gor Mahia coach sets out conditions Harambee Stars defender must meet to secure game time
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 20.01.26. | 08:24
The former Bandari defender joined K’Ogalo in August, shortly after featuring for Harambee Stars at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN)
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has called for heightened discipline and commitment from Harambee Stars defender Siraj Mohammed following the player’s long-awaited debut for the record Kenyan champions.
Speaking during his post-match press conference with Azam TV after Gor Mahia’s emphatic 3–0 victory over Mara Sugar, the Ghanaian tactician made it clear that indiscipline will not be tolerated under his stewardship, stressing that only players who meet the club’s standards on and off the training ground will earn opportunities.
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Akonnor’s remarks were widely interpreted as an explanation for Siraj’s prolonged absence from competitive action since the start of the 2025/26 season in September, despite being regularly named in matchday squads.
The 51-year-old coach insisted that seriousness in training remains non-negotiable for any player seeking consistent involvement.
The former Bandari defender joined K’Ogalo in August, shortly after featuring for Harambee Stars at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
However, his lack of minutes had sparked growing debate among supporters, with sections of the fanbase questioning why the experienced left-footer remained largely sidelined while fast-rising youngster Bryton Onyona cemented his place.
The situation had reportedly escalated to a point where Siraj was understood to be considering a move away from the club in search of regular playing time.
Those concerns were briefly eased on Sunday, 18 January, when the versatile defender finally made his Gor Mahia debut, coming off the bench in the closing stages as the Green Army swept aside Mara Sugar to reclaim top spot on the league standings with 33 points.
“We want to give every player time to play and build their confidence, but players have to be disciplined in terms of what we want,” Akonnor stated.
“If you do not meet those standards, you find yourself out. Today, it was good to give Siraj some minutes, even though they were minimal. He has to be serious in training and do the right things,” he added.
The former Ghana Black Stars player also took time to explain his decision to substitute club top scorer Felix Oluoch shortly after the interval.
Akonnor revealed that the move was purely precautionary, with the forward managing an injury.
“Felix has an injury that we are managing. He signaled that he was in pain, so we had to take him off as a precaution,” he explained.
Oluoch had earlier opened the scoring in the 14th minute, setting the tone for Gor Mahia’s dominant display.
Akonnor concluded by praising new signing Jackson Dwang, who enjoyed an impressive first start for the club.
The former Posta Rangers midfielder capped his performance with an assist for Musa Shariff’s goal.
“It was a good start for Dwang. Congratulations to him. He was in control, linked up play well, and contributed defensively, which was immense,” Akonnor said.
