Okumu was sent off for a second bookable offence during Reims’ 2-0 loss to Nantes last Sunday.
Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu is set to miss two crucial matches for Stade Reims after receiving a red card in their recent Ligue 1 clash against Nantes.
The Kenyan international was sent off late in the game after picking up a second yellow card, which now rules him out of upcoming fixtures.
The French league authorities have confirmed that Okumu will be absent for Reims’ Coupe de France Round of 16 tie against Bourgoin-Jallieu on Thursday, as well as their Ligue 1 encounter against Lyon on Sunday.
Julius Masaba has explained how difficult it has become to break into the competitive AFC Leopards starting line-up ever since moving from Kariobangi Sharks last August.
The center-back will, however, be available for selection when Reims take on Angers on February 16.
In Okumu’s absence, Nhoa Sangui is expected to partner Cedric Kipre in central defense as Reims look to break their poor run of form.
Reims are currently winless in their last nine league outings, with their last victory dating back to November 11. Their latest defeat to Nantes was particularly painful, marking the first time in 47 years that Nantes managed an away win at Reims.
Reims will also be looking to navigate a tricky Coupe de France tie against lower-tier side Bourgoin-Jallieu.
The competition has already witnessed shocking upsets, with OGC Nice and Toulouse FC bowing out against lower-league opponents. Interim coach Samba Diawara, who has taken charge following Luka Elsner’s dismissal earlier this week, will be eager to avoid a similar fate.
Okumu has endured a challenging season due to a recurring adductor issue, which has limited his involvement to just 11 Ligue 1 appearances.
His suspension now adds to his woes, further disrupting his bid to cement a regular starting position in the team.
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Otieno, who was named the Leicester City Development Player of the season last year, has returned to the club after suffering a worrying knee injury playing for Wigan last weekend.
The defender’s red card against Nantes came in stoppage time after a foul on Albine. His frustration appeared to get the better of him as he exchanged words with referee Benoît Millot, resulting in an immediate second booking and dismissal.
While the sending-off did not alter the outcome of the match, it has left Reims short-handed at a critical point in the season.
With Lyon on the horizon, Reims will be desperate to find form and climb back up the Ligue 1 standings. Whether Okumu’s return against Angers can provide the defensive stability they need remains to be seen.
