Former Manchester City forward John Guidetti heaped praise on Kenyan defender Collins Lusaka Sichenje after his impressive debut in AIK Fotboll’s 4-3 aggregate win over Vorskla Poltava in a UEFA Europa Conference League qualification match.
Speaking after the exciting clash, Guidetti - who once lived and played football in Kenya - commended Sichenje for his eye-catching defensive display.
“He did great, he was good. He is a very physical and fast player. It is not easy to come in like that in a must-win match so I think he performs in a very good way, so all credit to him,” Guidetti was quoted by MozzartSport.
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Guidetti spent more than five years in Kenya, living with his father who was an administrator in one of the learning institutions.
He had a short spell with Mathare United before moving to Europe. While at Manchester City, he was sent on loan to Burnley FC, Stoke City FC and Celtic FC.
Although Guidetti was eligible to play for Harambee Stars, he decided to turn out for his native country, making his debut for Sweden in 2012.
Josafat Wooding Mendes who played alongside Sichenje in the defense was also impressed with the former AFC Leopards player's performance.
“He made his first start, his first match and I thought he played a very good match. He showed hunger and won a lot of the ball. He is very strong, aggressive and fast. He is hard to pass,” stated Mendes.
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Lusaka signed a lucrative four-year deal with the Swedish top flight side in May this year. It was reported that Ingwe pocketed over Ksh5 million for the deal.
Other Kenyans currently playing for AIK include Harambee Stars left-back Eric Marcelo Ouma and former Tusker goal machine Henry Mejja. Ouma started his career at Gor Mahia FC.
Sichenje is a versatile player who can comfortably play in various positions including as a defensive midfielder and a central defender. Apart from playing for AFC Leopards, he also had a short stint with the Greek side PAOK.
The Kakamega High School alumni was in action for 105 minutes in a game which AIK won in extra time thanks to Axle Bjornstrom’s goal.
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