Rangers centre back eyes Emerging Stars call up

The arrival of Stanley Okumbi at Posta Rangers in February breathed life to careers of a sizeable number of players who were considered fringe by his predecessor.

Notable among those who won the confidence of the former Harambee Stars coach are the duo of Kelvin Opiyo and Kevin Ouma who had not enjoyed competitive football while the blue and red robes under Sammy Omollo who was shown the door under unclear circumstances.

Opiyo who joined the club from National Super League side APS Bomet was named the March player of the month after keeping three clean sheets in as many matches while Ouma has since established himself in the central defence after making his maiden start during their barren draw against Kariobangi Sharks.

While the individual fete procured Opiyo plaudits and commanded substantial coverage, Ouma on the other hand has not had a taste of the limelight.

However, the defender who was elevated to fill in the void which was left by Charles Odette who was loaned out to FC Talanta intends to follow suit and grab the headlines in the near future.

The towering centre back is optimistic his performance will compel the incoming national U23 head coach to summon him for the forthcoming CECAFA tournament set for July 3 - 18 in Ethiopia.

The 20-year old joined Posta at the start of the season from Kibera Black Stars and has been a cornerstone to the club's central defence since the arrival of Okumbi.

"I am enjoying my debut season in the top flight so far. My gratitude goes to coach Okumbi for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to showcase my talent. I am giving my best to help the team achieve its objectives and at the same time anticipating for a call up to the U23 team in the near future, " he said.

Majority of players find life in the top flight in their maiden season but for Ouma, it has been a smooth sailing courtesy of the presence and company from the experienced Suleiman Ngotho.

The youngster singled Ngotho for praises noting that he helped him settle in the league and has been holding his hand from the time they have been deployed together.

"Ngotho knows how to get the best out of me. He reads the game well and guides me on the pitch. He is a down to earth teammate whom I credit for the role he has played in my development thus far," he added.