Coach Kamau supports Makwata to fix Mathare’s goal scoring problems

Mathare United head coach John Kamau believes newly signed striker John Mark Makwata could be the answer to his side’s struggles in front of goal this season in the SportPesa League.

The Slum Boys confirmed the signing of the Kenyan international on Wednesday, beating Nairobi United, KCB and Kariobangi Sharks to his signature.

Makwata joins the club from Bandari FC. Speaking after completing the deal, Kamau — who previously worked with Makwata while serving as an assistant coach with the Harambee Stars — admitted that lack of goals has been Mathare’s biggest challenge this season.

“The only thing I feel we have lacked this season is goals,” said Kamau. “We have matched every opponent we have faced, but in the games where we have faltered, it is because we were unable to bury the chances we created. 

“With Makwata, we get a player who almost solves all of our issues in attack. We have recruited well to address our bluntness, and with the three players we have brought on board, I am optimistic about our chances as we advance.”

At Mathare, the St Luke’s Kimilili Boys alumnus links up with former teammates John Macharia and Kevin Ouru. He previously played alongside Macharia at Bandari and Ouru at Kariobangi Sharks.

Makwata will also reunite with goalkeeper coach David Okello and trainer Danson Kago, both of whom he played with at the national team level for Harambee Stars. The former Premier League top scorer expressed his excitement after completing the move.

“I am happy to be here, and I am relishing the new challenge,” said Makwata. “I considered a lot of things, and I can confidently say that Mathare is the best fit for me. It is a historic club, and the coach is someone I have worked with before, which will make settling in easier.”

Makwata brings vast experience to the Slum Boys’ attack, having previously featured for Ulinzi Stars, Police FC, and clubs in Zambia, Botswana and Kuwait.

 According to the club, his presence adds the physicality and leadership that Kamau has felt his side has lacked this season. Makwata is the third signing for Mathare United in the mid-season transfer window. The club has also recruited midfielder Isaac Omweri from Nairobi United and defender Michael Oduor.