Kenyan Obiero signs for English side Leyton

Zech Obiero [photo courtesy]

Kenyan youngster Zech Obiero has signed his first professional contract with English side Leyton Orient.

Obiero, son of former Gor Mahia player Henry Obiero, signs a two and a half year deal with the club, making him an Orient player until the summer of 2024.

Obiero, who celebrated his 18th birthday last week, has progressed through the academy since joining at age 16.

A technically gifted centre midfielder, Obiero caught the eye in pre-season, scoring a thunderbolt from long range, in an Orient XI game against Dulwich Hamlet.

Obiero went on to be involved closely with the first-team, and was named on the bench in the Carabao Cup game against QPR.

During the U18’s this season he has been a mainstay in the midfield, and was a big part of the cup run, leading to the FA Youth Third Round tie away at Chelsea.

Speaking to the Leyton Media team, His Academy manager Brian Saah was delighted to see him sign his first deal and knows there’s plenty to come for Obiero.

“Zech was one of the later ones to get a scholarship, but once he came in, people were speaking really highly of him; he wants to learn, and he’s got loads of ability,” said Brian Saah, Professional Development Lead Coach.

“Joe [Gallen] and Kenny [Jackett] took a shining to him early on, as did the players and staff, so we’re all delighted to get it over the line.”

“He’s technically very good, exciting, can score goals, and is an all round player. He has energy and can work box-to-box, and is starting to learn the defensive side of the game too.”

“Orient has a history of producing good young players, it’s almost like a tradition, so long may it continue.”

“We all play our part in players like Zech, so speaking for everyone in the academy, it’s a proud moment.”

His brother, Micah Obiero, is in the books of Huddersfield Town Academy.