Former AFC Leopards captain Otieno misses local food but enjoying life in Zambia

AFC Leopards' Duncan Otieno control ball during friendly match against Uganda's KCCA at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County on Jan 24, 2018. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Player says he doesn’t regret leaving AFC to seek greener pastures.

Former AFC Leopards captain Duncan Otieno speaks about his life in the Zambia Super League, his admiration for Manchester City midfield magician Kevin De Bruyne and why he is not settling down anytime soon.

How difficult has it been for you to adapt to life in the Zambia Super League?

Adapting to life in Zambia was not that difficult as I had thought about it before leaving home. But I was lucky to find Musa Mohammed already in the team, he has been very helpful to me. In addition, we both stay in the same estate in Kitwe.

Do you regret leaving AFC Leopards?

I don’t regret at all. I’m enjoying my new challenge. I just wish AFC Leopards the best and thank them for giving me the platform to start and grow my talent.

What’s the difference between the Zambian Super League and the Kenyan Premier League?

The difference comes in terms of match preparation, speed work and fitness level. Unlike in Kenya where I was used to having one training session then go to gym, here we do two training sessions (morning and afternoon) four days in a week. The most impressive thing is that almost all the Zambian teams play their home matches in their own stadiums.

What do you miss about Kenya?

OMG!!I miss everything about my family (mum, brother, sisters, aunties, uncles and friends). But what I miss most is the Kenyan food, especially omena (laughs).

Any you in a serious relationship?

Hehehe. I’m not walking down the aisle any time soon, for now I’m focused on my career.

How soon can we expect you in the national team? Do you think you will make it to 2019 AFCON?

This is a moment for me to keep on working hard with an aim of getting back to the team. But it all depends on the coach’s plan.

Harambee Stars Duncan Otieno during CECAFA Challenge Cup match against Zanzibar at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County. Dec 8, 2017. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Given a chance, what would you change in the Kenyan football?

The most important thing is to change how we market and brand the league, try to get more sponsors and partners to help grow the league as well as improve professionalism within the clubs especially when it comes to the players’ welfare.

Which teammate is your most trusted friend and confidant?

That must be Musa Mohammed.

Who’s the player you watch on the pitch and say, “He’s something special to watch.”?

Wauuu!! Kevin De Bruyne. His passing vision and knowledge of the game is something else.

He’s technically gifted and a joy to watch. Back home, I used to envy Whyvonne Isuza’s style of play.

What is your favourite meal?

Mmmmmmh! Brown ugali with omena.

What one thing can’t you leave the house without?

I can die if I leave the house without my phone and headsets.

What do you like to do on your day off? And where do you like to go?

It’s difficult to have a day off here but if I do, I always make good use of it; switch off my phone and sleep for a good period of the day. But if I’ve to go somewhere, then that must be shopping for a few things for the week or I go swimming.

Who was your first crush and first kiss?

Lol! My first crush and first kiss, that was way back in primary. I can’t even remember how it was but it felt special.

Who is your favourite musician and what kind of music do you enjoy most?

Tupac Shakur. I love hip hop and reggae music especially old school hip hop.

Who do you think is the best sportsman/woman of all time and why do you think so?

Cristiano Ronaldo. His level of commitment, hard work and professionalism is just amazing.

Why did you pick on your current sport and what would you have been if not a sports person?

I grew up in Yala, Siaya County, where sports is loved so much. I played a number of sports and at one point I was a hockey goalkeeper in high school, but my love for football and passion when playing was above all. If it wasn’t football, I would be either a lawyer or a teacher.

What are your pre and post-match rituals, how do you unwind?

I like staying in my locker alone, listening to some cool music to calm the nerves as I focus and meditate on the game then say a prayer before going for the warm up.

Who is your role model?

I idolise McDonald Mariga.