This archive report was first published on 6 June 2020.
Published on June 6, 2020, Kenyan international Ian Otieno has expressed his confidence in the future of two young goalkeepers, Bixente Otieno and Brian Bwire.
Having spent three seasons in the Zambian Super League, Ian remains in touch with Kenyan football and believes the duo are the best goalkeepers in the country at the moment.
"They are both young and very good in their game. They have the ability and talent and I believe the future of the goalkeeping department in the national team is safe in their hands," Ian said.
He praised Bixente's progress at Wazito, saying he has the potential for a great future if he maintains his hard work. Bwire, who has already been introduced to the national team setup, needs to maintain consistency to compete with the best in the game, Ian added.
As for Ian's own future in the national team, he faces stiff competition from Ethiopia-based Patrick Matasi. However, he remains focused on improving his skills and playing consistently for the national team.
"I haven't had as many national team caps as I would have loved to and therefore at the moment. I cannot really claim to be the outright first-choice custodian for the national team," he said.
Despite the competition, Ian is not under pressure to take over the number one jersey and is instead focused on getting better as a goalkeeper and doing his best whenever he's called upon.
