Kenyan players plying their trade in England’s football leagues had a busy weekend, with Zak Vyner, Tyler Onyango, and Clarke Oduor all featuring for their clubs, while Silko Amari Otieno Thomas was absent from Leicester City’s squad.
Vyner Solid in Bristol City Draw
Defender Zak Vyner played the full 90 minutes as Bristol City secured a 0-0 draw against Preston North End in the Championship. Stationed on the right side of a back three, Vyner impressed with his composure and defensive discipline. His timely interventions were key to keeping Preston at bay, particularly after Milutin Osmajic squandered a clear one-on-one chance. Bristol had opportunities of their own, with Anis Mehmeti going close twice, including a stoppage-time strike that was denied by Daniel Iversen. The result ensured the Robins earned a valuable away point.
Otieno Misses Out for Leicester City
In Friday night’s Championship clash, Silko Amari Otieno Thomas was not included in Leicester City’s matchday squad for their 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion. The Foxes trailed early after Samuel Iling-Junior’s strike but salvaged a point when Nat Phillips turned the ball into his own net deep into stoppage time. Otieno, who signed for Leicester from Chelsea in 2023, has had limited playing time this season, making just one league appearance so far.
Onyango Assists in League One
Tyler Onyango produced a strong performance for Stockport County in their 1-1 League One draw with Reading. Operating in midfield with physicality and control, Onyango provided an assist in the 22nd minute. Rising highest to meet Ben Osborn’s cross, he headed the ball across goal for Paddy Wootton to finish from close range. Reading equalised in the 73rd minute through Jack Marriott, and Stockport were denied a late winner when Wootton’s second effort was kept out by Joel Pereira.
Oduor Involved in Grimsby Town Thrashing
In League Two, Clarke Oduor featured as Grimsby Town thumped Cheltenham Town 7-1. Despite falling behind early, the Mariners quickly turned the match around through Jamie Walker’s brace. Cheltenham’s implosion, compounded by two red cards, allowed Oduor and his teammates to dominate. The emphatic victory lifted Grimsby’s morale and boosted their push to climb the table.
Kenya’s foreign-based players continue to make strides in England, showing promise that could translate into valuable contributions for the national team in upcoming fixtures.
