Sichenje reflects on ‘amazing’ Championship debut after Charlton draw at Southampton
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Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 22.02.26. | 11:09
The Kenyan center-back, who joined the Addicks on transfer deadline day, was handed an immediate start by head coach Nathan Jones and lasted 89 minutes before making way for Harry Clarke late on after appearing to pick up a knock
Harambee Stars defender Collins Sichenje has described his Championship debut for Charlton Athletic as an “amazing feeling” after helping his side secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium on Saturday, 21 February.
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The Kenyan center-back, who joined the Addicks on transfer deadline day, was handed an immediate start by head coach Nathan Jones and lasted 89 minutes before making way for Harry Clarke late on after appearing to pick up a knock.
Thrown straight into the intensity of England’s second tier, Sichenje rose to the occasion with a composed and disciplined display at the heart of the defense.
He registered 11 defensive contributions, winning two of his three tackles, making six clearances, and blocking two shots.
He also completed a recovery, won four of eight ground duels and both of his aerial battles, which showed his aerial dominance, while drawing four fouls.
“It feels amazing to be on the pitch and help the team get a big point,” Sichenje said after the match. “It is one step as we focus on Tuesday’s game. The game was intense, but I always believe in my qualities. It was a good opportunity to show what I can do.”
Charlton had to dig deep for the result. Ross Stewart handed Southampton the lead early in the second half, but the visitors responded through the in-form Sonny Carey, who struck yet another crucial goal to level matters.
Leo Scienza saw a third-minute volley cleared off the line by Lloyd Jones, while Ryan Manning rattled the crossbar with a fierce effort from the edge of the box in the 27th minute.
Much of the spotlight fell on Sichenje’s duel with Scienza, one of the Championship’s most dangerous wingers this season.
The attacker has featured in 27 matches, scoring five goals and providing seven assists, earning six Team of the Week nominations.
But Sichenje relished the challenge. "For me, I always believe in my qualities. I know I can defend against anyone. If he comes, I go as well. It was a good opportunity for me to show my defensive qualities, and I am happy I did well.”
The former AFC Leopards defender also acknowledged the strong backing he continues to receive from fans in Kenya, saying their support fuels his hunger to succeed abroad.
“It means a lot to me. It gives me an opportunity to work even harder because they believe in me. I believe in myself, and I must do everything to achieve success. I am hungry for everything, step by step,” he noted.
Sichenje, who moved to Charlton from the Serbian side Vojvodina, has quickly endeared himself to supporters both in Kenya and the United Kingdom, with fans even composing a song in his honor.
“I like the song, and hopefully they can sing more of that,” he said with a smile. “I will repay their joy by giving more on the field.”