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The right-back was one of the standout performers for Gor Mahia in their clash against Sofapaka.
Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry believes no full-back in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) comes close to the club’s youngster Paul Ochuoga.
Ochuoga is seen as the future of Gor having become a regular this season, forcing club captain Philemon Otieno to contend with spells on the bench or at times out of position by filling in at left-back whenever Geoffrey Ochieng is not available.
His ability to combine both defensive solidity and offensive fluidity has made him a favourite under McKinstry who seems to prefer him over the more conservative Philemon.
The 18-year-old was among the bright stars as K’Ogalo were forced to settle for a goalless draw with Sofapaka on Wednesday and his performance did not escape his coach’s attention.
“Paul is a fantastic talent, I don’t know when CECAFA Under 20 is coming around this year but if you can show me a better young full-back in the FKFPL, I don’t know,” said McKinstry.
“He’s not a perfect player yet, he’s still young only 18 he doesn’t turn 19 until September. He’s a really young boy and still has a lot to learn but there is talent there. However, talent alone doesn’t bring you success, you’ve got to keep working extremely hard.
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“You have to get the support of your teammates, family and coaches. I really hope that the Under 20s come around and he gets opportunities for the young Harambee Stars because he deserves it.”
Ochuoga is a product of the Gor Mahia Youth team, having joined the side in 2021 when the club’s scouts identified him while playing grassroots football.
While there has been speculation regarding Otieno’s future in the wake of the emergence of the Lavington Secondary School alumnus, McKinstry is happy to have both of them as they offer him different dynamics.
“We’ve said throughout the season, every game is like a locked door and you have got to have the right key to open a locked door,” he added.
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“That means we have to make certain tactical choices and like today (Wednesday) Paul was up and down that wing almost like a modern wingback in a 3-5-2 system and today suited him a little bit more. There will be other games that suit Philemon more and we’ve seen that.”
Gor are away to struggling Ulinzi Stars on Sunday and it will be interesting to see who between the two right-backs McKinstry fields.
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