Shilwatso still hopeful as transfer to top Spanish side stalls

Harambee Starlets players, From Left; Dorcas Shikobe, Mwanahalima Adam and Cynthia Shilwatso during a recovery training session at Camp Toyoyo stadium, Jericho in Nairobi on February 28, 2020. They are preparing for the upcoming Turkish Women's Cup and 2021 AWCON Qualifiers. Photo[Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to engulf the world, Kenyan international Cynthia Shilwatso is still hopeful of completing her dream move to Europe.

Though the Harambee Starlets midfielder has already signed a three-year deal with Spanish top tier side EDF Logrono, her transfer has been delayed by the coronavirus outbreak.

And just like other sporting events in the world, all football leagues in Spain including LaLiga and Primera Iberdrola have been indefinitely suspended as a precautionary measure against the spread of the deadly virus.

And it is because of this global crisis that the Vihiga Queens star has been forced to shelve her travel plans. 

Shilwatso was still in the process of applying for her visa when she got a communication from the Spanish club last week advising her to suspend her travel arrangements.

"The chance to play in Europe doesn't happen often especially to a Kenyan player like me. But right now the world is facing a huge challenge with coronavirus," Shilwatso said.

"The good thing is that I have already signed a contract with them, so there is nothing to worry about. As for now, our health is more important than other issues. Let's focus on keeping safe and pray for those battling with the virus."

Just like other athletes in the world, the pandemic has prevented her from normal training regime following government's directive to ban public gatherings. 

Harambee Starlets' Cynthia Shilwatso (left) and Judith Atieno of Select WPL Team Select in-preparation to the 2018 Africa Women's Cup of Nations during a buildup match at Utalii grounds. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

"It''s a bit tricky to train on my own because most of the clubs around have suspended their training seasons. But I'm working out individually and keeping fit through gym work.

"What matters now is our lives. We must play a role in ensuring that the world overcomes this pandemic. So, to my fellow Kenyans, let's continue staying safe by keeping the simple rules; washing hands, staying indoors and keeping social distance."

Shilwatso is among the five Harambee Starlets players who put Kenya on the global map with either their confirmed deals or impending moves to Europe after an impressive season with the national, team last year.

Eldoret Falcons duo of goalkeeper Annedy Kundu and defender Ruth Ingotsi started off what is turning out to be an exciting movement of Kenyan players abroad when they penned down a three year deal with Cyprus outfit Lakatamia FC in January.