Gor Mahia Chief Executive Officer Lordvick Aduda has confirmed that the club will cater for Shafik Batambuze’s surgery after the player came out pleading for financial assistance from well-wishers.
Batambuze picked a knee injury during a Caf Champions League match against Burundian side, Aigle Noir at Moi International Sports Center Kasarani and scans have now revealed that he damaged his anterior cruciate ligaments which require surgery.
Last week, the player came out begging well-wishers to help him raise Ksh. 400,000 required for the procedure as his club is currently starring at a financial crisis owing to the lack of a sponsor.
“I understand that the club is having financial problems, but I need this surgery so that I can play again. This situation is taking a toll on me. I call upon well-wishers to come to my aid, any financial assistance will be appreciated,” he said.
In an interview with a local station, Aduda said the club will foot the surgery bill when the club’s financial situation improves. The Kenyan champions are currently without a sponsor after betting firm Sportpesa terminated its sponsorship owing to a row with the taxman.
“It is our responsibility to treat Batambuze but it is also in the open the club is facing financial challenges and we cannot deny or run away from such a responsibility. Batambuze got injured while playing against Aigle Noir but our financial challenges as at now cannot help matters,” Aduda said.
Meanwhile, the former Football Kenya Federation CEO insists that the federation must cater for the costs of treating defender Philemon Otieno. The right-back picked a knee injury while playing for the national team and now the club and the federation are embroiled in a blame game.