In the 80s and 90s, the league was the toughest and most attractive to players before losing star power and attractions.
Since then, questions have been asked of the reasons for the decline despite the considerable efforts in trying to revive it over the last couple of seasons.
One of the reasons for the decline is that clubs are not making money as stadiums are most times empty.
As a result, clubs have not been in position to buy or attract star players, who would in turn lure fans back to the stadium.
It’s why the return of star players like Nestroy Kizito will assist improve the fading status of the league.
Of course there will be arguments that Kizito is past his best and should be looking towards retirement.
But the league has not produced a single quality player in the last five years or so and if anything, the current crop can only learn a lot from playing alongside a player that performed at the highest possible level in Europe.
Kizito had the choice of moving to Qatar or Saudi Arabia. He also had the option of considering deals in South Africa or Vietnam but didn’t.
So we should be fortunate he decided to return home and add quality to a league that will only get better in the forthcoming season.
Imagine the numbers and interests that would develop in local football if former Cranes star David Obua took a similar approach and signed for any of the other top sides.
Just like David, Kizito certainly has the pedigree. The two are brands that would market a league that is unfortunately still losing some of its finer players to the fringe leagues in neighbouring countries because of better wages.
Its players like these that contribute to the appeal of the league, an area where Ugandan league football has failed.
South Africa opted for the same route, luring former Bafana Bafana star players Bennie McCarthy (Orlando Pirates), Bernard Parker (Kaizer Chiefs), Aaron Mokoena (Bidvest Wits) and are reaping the fruits. Why can’t we?
Welcome home Nestroy.
No comments:
Post a Comment