After sitting out of Kenyan Premier League action for 260 days, stopper Wycliffe Otieno returned to the pitch on 1 May 2022 during a matchday 28 FKF Premier League tie against Kenyan Police in Ruaraka.
Wycliffe aka Wiked, started in the game that ended 0-0 in what was his first premier league game since he suffered an ankle dislocation at the same venue against Mathare United on 14 Aug 2021.
Having fully recovered, Wiked had made the squad for the first time this season the weekend before, on 23 April 2022, against Sofapaka, but was an unused substitute.
On his return to the Nairobi City Stars lineup after 8 months and 17 days, Wiked clocked 70 minutes before trading his place with Lennox Ogutu to complete the game.
“I’m just grateful to the NCS family, technical bench, administration, teammates, and fans for the support they gave me on my journey to recovery
“I am hoping to clock more minutes, get more games under my belt, and positively contribute towards the team’s goals before the season comes to an end,” added Wycliffe
The return of Otieno, and his performance on the day, head coach Nicholas Muyoti talking;
“I didn’t expect that from him at all. After a very long layoff, he came in and did very well. It’s like he had never been off. Other than match fitness (lack thereof), he surprised us all with a very good performance.” said Muyoti
Now back to the pitch, Wiked has his work cut out with six more games left to the wrap of the season.
In his quest for more playtime, he has to contend for playtime against regulars Kenedy Vidic Onyango, Salim Shitu Abdallah, Edwin Malebo Buliba, and Lennox Capello Ogutu.
Wycliffe Otieno in action in a Premier League round 8 tie against Ulinzi Stars on Sat 16 Jan 2021. It ended 1-1
Nairobi City Stars stopper Wycliffe ‘Wiked’ Otieno challenges Ulinzi Stars right back Brian Birgen to the ball during a Betking Premier League match day 25 on Sat 17 Jul 2021 at the ASK Showground. City Stars won 2-0