Kenya Police FC head coach Nicholas Muyoti believes the arrival of Ghanaian midfielder Nana Kusi Asante could provide the spark his side needs as they continue to push at the upper end of the Kenyan Premier League table.
Asante has joined the defending champions from Ghana Premier League outfit Vision FC, adding depth to an already competitive Police midfield. The Kenyan tactician says the 24-year-old brings energy, discipline and tactical awareness that fit neatly into Police’s playing model. “
We have been looking to add more intensity and control in midfield, and Nana gives us that,” Muyoti said. “He understands positional play and reads the game very well.”
Muyoti explained that Asante’s versatility was a key factor in the recruitment. “He can play as a holding midfielder or slightly higher, which gives us options depending on the opponent.”
The coach also highlighted the Ghanaian’s work ethic. “What impressed us most is his attitude. He trains with purpose and wants to improve every day.”
According to Muyoti, the midfielder’s experience will be valuable in tight matches. “He is calm under pressure and doesn’t panic on the ball, and that is important in this league.”
However, the Police coach was careful to manage expectations. “We are not putting pressure on him to be a saviour. He is joining a team, not carrying a team.”
Muyoti believes Asante will complement the existing midfielders. “We already have quality players, and competition will raise the level for everyone.”
On adaptation, he added: “The league is physical and demanding, but he is adjusting quickly and learning what is required.”
Looking ahead to today’s trip to Mombasa to face Bandari FC at Mbaraki Stadium, Muyoti expressed confidence, though he acknowledged the challenge. “Mbaraki is never an easy place to play,” he said. “Bandari are organised and difficult to break down at home.”
Police head into the fixture fourth on the log with 28 points, eight behind joint leaders Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, but buoyed by a narrow 1–0 victory over Mara Sugar at Awendo Green Stadium last weekend.
“That win was important for our confidence,” Muyoti noted. “It wasn’t our best performance, but it showed character.”
He stressed the importance of consistency. “At this stage of the season, you must keep collecting points, even when performances are not perfect.”
On the title race, he remained measured. “We know the gap, but we are not looking too far ahead. Our focus is Bandari, nothing else.”
He concluded: “If we play with discipline and intensity, I believe we can get a positive result.”
Bandari FC assistant coach Razak Siwa, meanwhile, believes his side can cause problems for the defending champions if they improve their sharpness in the final third.
The Dockers sit 10th on the table with 24 points and are coming off a goalless draw against Kariobangi Sharks, a match Siwa felt they should have won. “We created chances against Sharks, but we did not finish them,” Siwa said. “That is something we have worked on in training.” Siwa acknowledged the quality of the opponents.
“Police are a strong team with good organisation and experience.” However, he insisted Bandari will not be overawed. “At home, we must be brave and believe in ourselves.”
The assistant coach pointed to improvement in structure. “Defensively, we are more solid than earlier in the season.”
Still, he admitted that attacking efficiency remains an issue. “We need to be more decisive in the final third. One or two good chances must be goals.” Siwa believes urgency will be key. “If you hesitate, you get punished at this level. We must move the ball quicker and stretch them.”
On mentality, he added, “The players understand what is required. We cannot afford to switch off.”
Siwa feels Mbaraki Stadium gives Bandari an edge. “Our fans push us, and that energy helps the team.” He concluded with optimism. “If we sharpen our attack and stay focused, we can surprise them.”
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