New or old job, no problem for Leopards’ coach Kimani

AFC Leopards coach Anthony Kimani follows their Kenyan Premier League match against Gor Mahia at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on March 8, 2020.

Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group

What you need to know:

  • Kimani was appointed to take charge of Leopards following the resignation of Czech Tomas Trucha on Thursday. Trucha had only worked for one month.
  • Trucha guided Leopards to a 2-1 win over Tusker in their opening league match of the  season last weekend in what proved to be his first and last top flight match with the big cats.

AFC Leopards’ stand-in coach Anthony Kimani, just a day old on the job, has quickly put focus on gathering all three points in their Football Kenya Federation Premier League match against Bidco United at Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi on Sunday.

Kimani was appointed to take charge of Leopards following the resignation of Czech Tomas Trucha on Thursday. Trucha had only worked for one month.

Kimani, who was Leopards’ assistant coach before his recent elevation, said he was  under no pressure as this was a kitchen he had cooked in before. “I’m ready to steer the club to victory against Bidco United on Sunday," he said.

"Bidco is a good team but we have prepared well and are eager to fight for all the three points ,” said the Kenyan former international defender who also played for AFC Leopards and Mathare United.

Trucha guided Leopards to a 2-1 win over Tusker in their opening league match of the  season last weekend in what proved to be his first and last top flight match with the big cats.

This will be the second time Kimani is taking over the club in an acting capacity.  He did the same  when Rwandan Andre Casa Mbungo prematurely left Ingwe last December over payment issues.

Trucha has since been appointed head coach of Malaysian side Penang FC.

Trucha cited concern for his personal security for quitting AFC Leopards. He had said that people claiming to be fans of the club had threatened his life over squad selection.

“I like facing challenges. I was in charge when Mbungo left last year and the players gave their best. We will continue to strive to excel,” said Kimani.