Gor Mahia coach Sinisa Mihic welcomes Benson Omala’s return amid profligacy issue

Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic has welcomed the return of striker Benson Omala as his main strikers continue to fire blanks.

Former Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala finds himself with an opportunity to rewrite his fortunes as head coach Sinisa Mihic has welcomed his return to the club.

Omala, who was the top scorer in last season’s FKF Premier League with 19 goals, played a crucial role in securing Gor Mahia’s record-extending 21st league title before seeking opportunities abroad at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

However, his overseas venture did not gone as planned. Reports indicate that Omala’s stint in Lebanon ended prematurely due to a strained relationship with the club over unpaid wages, ultimately leading to the termination of his contract as reported by Pulse Sports.

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Now, the Kenyan international has made a much anticipated return to Gor Mahia feted to play a part in the title challenge.

Mihic expressed openness to Omala’s return during a post-match interview after Gor Mahia’s 3-1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks.

“Oh, I don’t know him. Right? I saw him only from YouTube and from video that he was a good player, the best striker, what we need. Right?” Mihic stated.

Despite admitting unfamiliarity with Omala, Mihic acknowledged that the striker’s return is a significant boost to the team’s attacking force, which has struggled in recent matches.

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“A real striker, yes? Now we are like—I have to be true—we don’t have a striker that you can say this guy will score ten, fifteen goals,” he added.

Gor Mahia’s forward line has been underwhelming since Omala’s departure. His replacement, Congolese striker Gedeon Bendeka, has failed to impress, while new signing Ugandan forward Charles Bbaale has yet to find his rhythm.

As a result, the attacking burden has largely fallen on midfielder Austine Odhiambo.

His absence due to injury saw Gor Mahia struggle for goals, but his recent return has already made an impact, highlighted by a brace in the 3-1 win over Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium.

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With Gor Mahia currently engaged in a thrilling title race against Kenya Police and Tusker FC, a potential Omala’s return could be the edge they need to reclaim the top spot.

Police lead the standings with 42 points, Tusker follows closely with 41, while Gor Mahia sits third with 39 points but holds a game in hand over both rivals.

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