Harambee Stars prospect over moon after setting record in England

Harambee Stars prospect Zak Vyner was all smiles, on Tuesday evening, after making history with his boyhood club Bristol City.

Vyner had reasons to smile after becoming the club's all-time Championship appearance record holder.

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The 27-year-old defender reached the milestone during City’s 3-1 comeback win over Southampton at Ashton Gate, marking his 219th appearance in the competition.

He consequently, surpassed Jamaican midfielder Marvin Elliott, who made 218 appearances for the club between 2007 and 2014.

Vyner, a natural central defender, played the entire 90 minutes in midfield, helping his side secure their first home win in four matches.

Speaking to the club media, Vyner expressed his delight after a night that combined personal history and team success.

“I am glad to have been part of this achievement, and hopefully there is more to come. I am just over the moon and thankful to everyone who has helped me feel comfortable from the academy to the first team,” he said.

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“It is a lovely day for me, seeing family and former players, and topping it off with a win.”

The record-breaking appearance came just days after Vyner matched Elliott’s record in the away victory against Norwich City, where he featured in his 218th league match for the Robins.

Liam Fontaine ranks third on the list with 214 appearances.

A Bristol native, Vyner joined the club’s academy in 2004 and has spent over two decades with the Robins.

After several loan spells earlier in his career, he cemented his place as a key player and last season featured in all league fixtures, underlining his reliability and consistency.

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Bristol City’s Technical Director Brian Tinnion has confirmed that the club has offered Vyner a new contract, emphasizing his importance to their long-term plans.

“I think it is imperative that if we cannot invest, we keep the squad together,” Tinnion told BBC Sport.

“We have secured Rob, offered Zak Vyner a new contract, and Anis Mehmeti has been offered a new deal. We have also had talks about extending others who have two years left. It is a really good group of players, and if we cannot spend, we need to protect what we have until we can reinvest.”

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Vyner, born in England but eligible to represent Kenya, received his first Harambee Stars call-up in 2023 under coach Engin Firat but did not make his debut due to passport issues.

Current Stars coach Benni McCarthy has since held talks with Vyner, who remains interested in turning out for Kenya but is currently focused on his club career.

“I spoke personally to Zak, and with the Championship and Premier League just starting, he felt it was a bit too early because of the heavy fixture schedule,” McCarthy said.

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“He did not want to risk anything since he is in his final contract year and pushing for a new deal at his club. But we are in contact, and I know he is keen to represent Kenya when the timing is right.”

Bristol now shift action to Saturday’s home match against Birmingham City.

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