By Keke Roy

This list comprises of those players who, despite all odds such as non-payments, player revolts, good offers and off-forms have decided to remain loyal with their respective clubs. These players have served their clubs with dedication and offered their all towards achieving personal and club obligations. Loyalty is a rare trend in football because of the constant offers that come from other prospective clubs.

David Okello (Mathare United)

The Mathare United Skipper has been with the club for almost 10 years, having travelled with the youth teams to represent the badge in Norwegian tournaments. Commonly known as “Esio,” the diminutive midfielder has been loyal to the club despite the mass exodus of players due to non-payments or good offers elsewhere. He has been through the reigns of Gabriel Kingi, Francis Kimanzi, Stanley Okumbi and Salim Ali.

Barnabas Tiema (Sofapaka)

The former AFC Leopards Goalkeeper cum striker was among the experienced players who did not make moves after the “Batoto Ba Mungu” outfit started experiencing cash slumps. Although the shot-stopper has stayed with the side since 2014, the intent to stay makes him a loyal servant.

Patrick Agwanda (Western Stima)

Patrick Agwanda is Western Stima’s second choice goalkeeper for the 9th year now. He joined the electricians in 2008 after a short stint with Sony Sugar, but has always failed to command a first team selection. However, the goalie has on several occasions turned down offers from other clubs to be their first keepers.

Musa Mohammed (Gor Mahia)

The deputy Gor Mahia captain and a stoic defender has featured for the side in over 200 matches. He joined the champions after been scouted playing for his school Langata High in 2008* and has always kept faith in the green jersey. Most of his peers have left the side to join other teams in search of “good money” and more playing time. The 3-time league champion has seen the good and the ugly side of Gor Mahia, including hooliganism, non-payment of salaries, boycotts, unbeaten run and regional dominance.

Jerim Onyango (Gor Mahia)

The current Gor Mahia and second-choice goalkeeper has also served the club with all his heart. He joined the side in 2009 from KRA, but has never made a move to other teams. Several top-flight keepers have come and left him between the sticks. Last Season, Jerim was an understudy of Boniface Onyango due to form and speculations were rife about his departure. However, he made it clear that he would hang his gloves at the side for a political career in 2017.

Sylvester Wanyama (Sony Sugar)

Victor Wanyama’ elder brother has been a loyal servant at the Sugar belt side Sony after the disbandment of Oserian Fastac in 2002. The defender has been vowed never to move from the Migori-based side until his retirement. He is still a marvel to watch and is always energetic on the pitch.

Victor Oduor (Western Stima)

The lanky right fullback defender joined Stima in 2006 when the team was still in Nationwide league. He was recruited from Thur Gem High School and helped the side to gain promotion to the top flight. Commonly known as Pappy/Waweru, the defender has shown allegiance to his team, despite not enjoying first team selection in the current squad.

There is nothing as Loyalty in Ulinzi Stars; it is a calling and a duty to serve the “Nation” there.

The writer is just a local football enthusiast who claims to know something, but knows nothing. He is here to share and learn anything.

E-mail; rkeke2@gmail.com

Twitter: @IAmKekeRoy

Collins Okinyo

Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com