TEAM NEWS: Odong penciled for return against Young Elephants

Andrew Odong is not far away from a full comeback to action as per the latest indications, after receiving clearance from the club’s medical department.

Odong returned to training last week, and has been building up fitness ahead of our home game against Young Elephants at the Lugazi FC stadium in Najjembe on Sunday.

The midfielder was injured during our 2-1 victory over Kataka FC in the BetPawa Big League in December last year.

Odong, who joined the Leaders at the start of the season from Mvara FC was introduced after 68 minutes, and set up Samuel Ssemugugu’s winner with three minutes to go.

Though he completed the match, he developed uneasiness later on, with scans revealing that he had suffered some damage to his knee cap.

Although it was first thought that he would be out of action for a shorter period, it was advised that he not be rushed to avoid instances of possible damage if he returned early.

Odong was cleared to return to training last week, and was incorporated back into the group in the build up to our away trip to Kigezi Homeboyz in Kabale last Sunday.

He is currently building fitness and is expected to play a role in the final three games of the season as needed.

Although it was thought Odong would not be involved again at Young Elephants, interim head coach Gerald Efiti has given indication that there is an outside chance he could prove his fitness in time.

Odong’s return is a boost to Efiti who will be without midfielder Derrick Ochen who is ruled out after contracting pneumonia during the team’s trip to Kabale.

Meanwhile, talisman Sam Ssemugugu will defiantly be available for selection as long as he continues training without any issues.

The striker who has scored nine goals this season been dealing with a fever since the game against Kigezi.

He has been working closely with the physios and coaches on personal training, limiting his involvement with the group.

Defender Savio Kabugo, who has missed the previous four game, has suffered a setback in his recovery from a shin injury, despite being expected to return this week.

This complication has extended his time out, and while there is a slim chance he could return for the final game, the initial indication suggests he may be out for the remainder of the season to ensure full recovery for pre-season.

Goalkeeper Abraham Opio remains sidelined with a long-term injury requiring surgery at the season’s end. His absence will be felt, but the team is adjusting to compensate for his loss.