This archive report was first published on 2 October 2019.
Philemon Otieno, a talented player for Gor Mahia, has been out of action for four months after undergoing a successful knee surgery on October 3, 2019.
The surgery was a result of an injury Otieno sustained while playing for the national team, Harambee Stars, during the 2020 Africa Nations Championship (Chan) qualifier against Taifa Stars at Kasarani in August 2019.
According to Otieno, he had to raise Sh450,000 for the surgery, which was covered by contributions from family members, friends, fans, and part of his own savings.
"I underwent surgery on my knee on Thursday (last week) and I've been continuing with physiotherapy since then according to doctor’s instructions. I am very grateful to my family, friends, fellow players and fans for coming to my aid at the time of need and for their prayers," Otieno said in an emotional statement.
Despite the challenges he faced, Otieno expressed his gratitude to the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (Kefwa) for supporting him during his recovery.
He also thanked specific individuals, including Musa Mohamed, Michael Olunga, Joash Onyango, Johana Omollo, and Aboud Omar, for their help.
Although Otieno has been sidelined for four months, he remains optimistic about his future in football and is willing to feature for the national team again.
