Dennis Oalo/HANDOUT 
Derrick Otanga/HANDOUT Shabana FC have strengthened their attack with the signing of experienced forwards Derrick Bernard Otanga and Dennis Ochieng' as the Glamour Boys intensify preparations for the new SportPesa League season.
Otanga joins the Kisii-based side after spells with several clubs in Kenya and abroad, while Oalo arrives with extensive top-flight experience from a number of established Kenyan sides.
Otanga, who was raised in Pipeline, Embakasi South, began his football career at Naivas FC after completing his education at Emusire High School.
The powerful striker went on to play for Sony Sugar, Wazito, Kenya Police, KCB, Al-Ittihad Misurata SC of Libya and Kakamega Homeboyz, gaining both domestic and international experience.
“I am happy to join Shabana FC and I am ready for this new challenge,” Otanga said. “I have played for several clubs and every experience has helped me grow as a player. I now want to use that experience to help Shabana achieve its targets.”
Otanga said the opportunity to return to the Kenyan top flight with Shabana had motivated him to work hard and make an immediate impact.
“I know the expectations are high, but I believe in my ability and I am prepared to give everything for the club,” he said.
The forward is also keen to quickly establish a rapport with his new teammates and supporters.
“My focus is to settle in, understand the coach's plans and build a strong relationship with my teammates. We want to give the fans something to celebrate,” Otanga said.
Oalo, who was born and raised in Nyalenda, Kisumu County, is a former Kisumu Day High School student. He began his senior career at Kisumu All Stars before turning out for Western Stima, Nairobi Stima, Gor Mahia, Posta Rangers, Talanta FC, Nairobi City Stars and Tusker.
“I am delighted to become a Glamour Boy and I am looking forward to starting this new chapter of my career,” Oalo said.
The experienced forward believes his knowledge of Kenyan football will help him settle quickly at Shabana.
“I have played for different clubs and worked with different coaches, so I understand what is required at this level. I want to use that experience to help the team,” he said.
Oalo also welcomed competition for places, saying it would push the squad to maintain high standards.
“When you join a club like Shabana, you know there is pressure to perform. I welcome that pressure because it motivates me to work harder,” he said.
He promised to give his best whenever called upon by the technical bench.
“My responsibility is to work hard in training, fight for my place and contribute whenever I get the opportunity. The team's success comes before individual achievements,” Oalo said.
The arrival of Otanga and Oalo gives Shabana more options in attack as the club builds its squad for the upcoming campaign.
Their experience is expected to complement the club's younger players as the Glamour Boys seek to put together a competitive squad for the new season.
Both players are expected to link up with their new teammates as preparations continue.
