Tusker insist assistant coach Baraza not suspended

Tusker FC Thursday batted away claims the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) club had suspended assistant coach Francis Baraza on the back their opening season defeat to Chemelil Sugar.

A flurry of reports on social media suggested Baraza had been roundly blamed for failing to deliver on duties that fall that directly fall under his docket and that led to their 2-0 loss to Chemelil on Saturday.

Club Media Liaison Officer Diana Yonah has however quashed the reports, saying Tusker’s technical bench remains ‘united’.

“Those are mere unfounded rumours by people who wish us trouble. We have not suspended or sacked anyone from the technical bench; kindly treat those reports as rumours,” Yonah said.

Last year, reports of dressing room revolt against former coach George Nsimbe were substantiated when the Brewers suspended the Ugandan after he allegedly made disparaging remarks against the playing unit.

Baraza, who had joined from Chemelil, was then appointed coach on interim basis until the end of last season when the 11-time KPL winners hired another Ugandan Sam Timbe.

Under Baraza, Tusker secured a goalless draw with Kariobangi Sharks before winning three on the bounce against Muhoroni Youth, Nakumatt and Posta Rangers.

The youthful tactician was however snubbed for the top job as the management opted for the experienced Timbe, who has previously managed Sofapaka FC.

It was reported that Baraza expected to take over from Nsimbe, only for the club’s management to go for the experienced former Sofapaka tactician.

The team is warming up for their second league match on Monday against Posta Rangers, who drew 1-1 in their opener match against AFC Leopards.