This archive report was first published on 9 August 2019.
Paul Bitok, the newly appointed head coach of Malkia Strikers, has outlined his priorities for the team, including mental and physical preparation, and strengthening weaknesses in receptions.
Bitok, a former national men's team captain, took over from Italian coach Shailene Ramdoo on Thursday and is eager to make his mark for his country after an illustrious career in Rwanda.
His first assignment as head coach begins when he guides the nine-time African champions for the 12th African Games title defence in Morocco from August 19-31.
Bitok, 48, has high expectations for the team, despite their recent losses to Cameroon in the African Championship and in Italy, where they played two good games and lost the other miserably.
“This is my third time to be with the team, the last time we won the African title in 2006, I want to assure Kenyans that we will do everything possible to defend the All Africa games title,” Bitok said in an interview with Citizen Digital.
Bitok believes the inclusion of young blood in the team will increase Kenya's chances of qualifying for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
Kenya will renew their rivalry with African champions Cameroon, Senegal, and Algeria in Morocco, a group christened the group of death.
