Shakava: Gor should start early Caf preparations

Captain Harun Shakava Gor Mahia FC during 15th Edition of Total Confederation African Football Cup match against Young African FC at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday July 18, 2018. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Gor Mahia captain Harun Shakava has urged the club to begin preparations as they gear up for their second successive appearance in the Caf Champions League.

The ex-Kakamega Homeboyz center-back (pictured) attributed their exit from continental football to lack of depth, adding that they need to sign more players ahead of the new season.

"We lacked depth in this season's continental campaign and hopefully the new players, who might join us, will help us improve," said Shakava.

"The competition starts earlier than usual and we must have a team that can compete favourably."

With the club's players having been paid their outstanding salaries and bonuses for August, the 24-year old exuded confidence of having seamless preparations.

"I am glad the club chairman has put our house in order since such off-field troubles like lack of salaries and bonuses can prove costly as we head into the continental stage," he said.

K'Ogalo were ousted from this year's Caf Champions League after a 1-0 aggregate loss to Tunisia's Esperance, a result that saw them relegated to the Confederations Cup.

Gor stunned South Africa's Supersport United to make their first group stage appearance.

From next season, Caf club competitions will kick off in November and conclude in August, unlike previous editions where they began from February to November.

On the club's recent poor run of form, Shakava said their financial crisis played a role in their back-to-back losses. [Clement Wekulo]