‘Aye aye, captain!’ Ulinzi Stars unveil new skipper ahead of season opener

Photo credit: Ulinzi Stars

FOOTBALL ‘Aye aye, captain!’ Ulinzi Stars unveil new skipper ahead of season opener

Mark Kinyanjui 10:19 - 21.08.2023

The 29-year-old has been appointed captain on a full-time basis, having served as skipper in James Saruni's absence for much of last season.

Ulinzi Stars have confirmed the appointment of full-back Brian Birgen as their new skipper ahead of the 2023/2024 FKF Premier League season.

The Soldiers confirmed this on their social media pages, accompanying the announcement with an eye-catching video that revealed Birgen’s delight at being the man to lead his teammates out on the field in their quest to make amends for a dismal end to last season.

He took on the role for a big part of last season in the absence of keeper James Saruni, who missed the better part of last campaign due to injury and is weighing up retirement plans at 37.

Birgen started his career at Ulinzi Stars in 2014 as an offensive player, before transitioning to fullback.

Embracing the responsibilities of a fullback, Birgen honed his defensive prowess while maintaining an innate ability to support the team's attacks when needed.

His dedication to the game, unwavering work ethic, and commitment to Ulinzi Stars have earned him immense respect from both teammates and fans alike.

As one of the most senior pros in the Ulinzi dressing room, he will be hoping the experience he has gained over the years will now help inspire his teammates into aiding the side get to the upper echelons of Kenyan football.

He has already expressed his eagerness to lead his teammates out onto FKFPL matches on a full-time basis, tweeting “Wiki ya mechi (It is match week)" on his Twitter account.