Arnold Origi lauds Leopard’s Ezekiel Owade as Kenya’s next big goalkeeper
Former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Arnold Origi has tipped up and coming AFC Leopards shot stopper, Ezekiel Owade, as a ‘huge potential’ for success in the top level.
Origi, who has been plying his trade in Europe for last decade, has never been shy to mentor youthful footballers in the country and Owade seems to have greatly impressed him.
But the 34-year-old Origi who manned the posts for the national team for over 10 years, has also advised the 22-year-old keeper to improve on some aspects of his game while hinting he is ready to be part of the process.
NATIONAL CALL UP
“Some small adjustments and polishing and he’ll be the next big goalkeeping name in Kenyan football. Though (at) 22 those around him need to step it up or make contact we aid in the polishing process because he might run out of time,” Origi wrote on his social media pages regarding Leopards’ first choice custodian’s prospects.
Despite not earning a call up to the Kenya national team ahead of the crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana on September 7, Owade has been one of the shining lights at Leopards and in the top flight league, especially since coach Rodolfo Zapata took charge of the side.
The youngster, who only joined Leopards from Nakumatt at the start of the 2018 league season, has been at the core of Ingwe’s impressive performances of six wins in 10 league matches, before Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to bitter rivals Gor Mahia in the Mashemeji derby at Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.