Massive boost for Rangers ahead of Tusker tie

Posta Rangers have been handed a massive boost ahead of their league encounter against eleven-time champions Tusker following the return of the experienced Joseph Mbugi.

The defensive midfielder had been sidelined from February after hurting his left knee while training.

Mbugi who also doubles up as the club’s captain was unfortunate to suffer the injury during Stanley Okumbi’s first session at the club.

The former Harambee Stars coach was appointed as the mailmen’s head coach in February after his predecessor Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo was shown the door under unclear circumstances.

Mbugi, a league winner with Tusker disclosed that he had shook off the setback and had will be available for selection when they seek to avenge their 4-1 first leg loss to Tusker on Tuesday at the Ruaraka grounds.

“I was cleared by the doctor to resume training three weeks ago and have managed to make to the eighteen-man squad for the Tusker match. A knee injury had kept me away from the time Okumbi took over but it feels good to be back and to win his confidence within a short time,” he said.

For the time the former Mahakama man was away, Okumbi trusted Bernard Ondiek, a February catch from Gor Mahia to shield the defence with Suleiman Ngotho assuming the armband.

Mbugi acknowledged that Ondiek who is always paired with Joshua Nyatini had outdone himself and predicted fierce competition for starting roles.

The former Mathare Youth graduate said he had rolled his sleeves in a bid to reclaim his number in the team going forward.

“The team has been doing well in my absence particularly Ondiek who was signed to fill my shoes owing to the nature of my injury. He has done well so far and thus, I have to double my efforts in training for me to earn the nod from the coach ahead of him,” said the Siakago Boys High School alumnus.