Why Nyakeya almost quit football

Mathare United midfielder Cliff Nyakeya in Kenyan Premier League action against Ulinzi Stars. [Standard Sports]

Newly named SportPesa Premier League midfielder of the year Cliff Nyakeya almost quit football while playing for Gor Mahia Youth in 2014 due to inadequate financial support.

But after two and half seasons in the topflight league and having scored 14 goals to inspire Mathare United to a top eight finish, the youngster beat all odds to walk home with the best midfielder gonh duing last Thursday's Foya Awards at the Kenya School of Government, Lower Kabete.

Though Nyakeya lost the player of the year award to Kariobangi Sharks' Eric Kapaito, he fend off stiff competition from last year's winner Michael Madoya (Zoo Kericho) and Elvis Nandwa to claim the midfielder award.

And when he took to the stage to pick up the award, Nyakeya gave a reminiscing emotional acceptance speech, thanking former Gor Mahia Secretary General Chris Omondi for coming to his rescue.

"I didn't expect to win but I'm my hardwork has been recognized..I am really proud of where I have come from. It hasn't been an easy journey. I nearly gave up on playing football when I was at Gor Mahia youth, but I thank Chris Omondi for coming to my rescue," said Nyakeya.

"It was really tough at Gor Mahia youth because they didn’t offer me any financial assistance and at that time I was also living with a relative who was not very stable financially.

"But Chris came to my aid and acted like a father to me,. He took me into his house, offered me everything and convinced me to resume playing football. After a two year stay, I left Gor Mahia youth and joined Mathare United where I have grown from strength to strength till today."

He continued: "I'm now very excited and motivated for this recognition. My hard work and discipline on the pitch has paid off."

Asked about his future at Mathare United and if he expected to win an award after struggling with an injury the previous season, the soft speaking said:

"I can't talk about my next move right now because I still have a running contract with Mathare. I look forward to performing better and help my team win as many matches as possible. I feel happy when I am involved in all matches for my team becayse it helps me grow as a player.

"I can't tell about the awards because it was all about voting. Someone might have voted for you because he knows you or you are his player. All the same, I was so appreciative for my performance but for sure I expected a recognition. I was ready to accept any award during the gala."

Apart from Nyakeya, his team manager Vincent Okello was also rewarded as the best manager in the 2018 season.

Midfielder of the Year
Cliff Nyakeya – Mathare United (Sh300,000)
Michael Madoya – Zoo FC (Sh200,000)
Elvis Nandwa – Ulinzi Stars (Sh100,000)