No player is assured of starting role at Tusker, warns coach Mette

Tusker FC head coach Julien Mette has thrown open competition for places in his squad, warning that no player is guaranteed a starting role as the Brewers fight to get their season back on track.

The Frenchman insists selection will be strictly based on merit, a stance that has already sparked healthy competition across key positions—most notably in goal.

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New signing Pavelh Ndzila made an instant impression on debut, keeping a clean sheet in Tusker’s 2-0 victory over Kakamega Homeboyz in Mwea.

His performance has intensified the battle for the number one spot, with Brandon Obiero having also delivered consistently in recent matches.

“It was a very important performance for Pavelh after four very good games by Brandon, and now we have a real challenge with the goalkeepers,” Mette said.

Across the pitch, the message remains the same: perform or risk losing your place.

“We have very good centre-backs and full-backs. In each position, you can switch players and still be strong. It is a good headache—if you don’t perform, you can go out, and those who work well go in,” he added.

Tusker’s latest win, though crucial, was far from straightforward. Played on a difficult surface against a physical opponent, the match forced Mette’s side to abandon their usual passing rhythm and adapt quickly.

“It was almost a nightmare with the pitch. It was not a beautiful game, but I am very happy because it rewarded the players’ hard work,” he admitted.

Rather than relying on their typical fluid style, Tusker dug in, matching their opponents physically and battling for control, particularly in aerial duels.

“We are artists, but sometimes you must become fighters. If you want to win titles, you must be able to do both,” Mette said, praising his players’ resilience and composure under pressure.

Attention now shifts to a tough test against second-placed AFC Leopards on Sunday—a fixture that could further define Tusker’s push for consistency.

For Ndzila, the debut was both a personal milestone and a statement of intent.

“I am happy to have finally played my first match for Tusker. I enjoyed it even more because we kept a clean sheet and won,” he said.