When did Express FC last sign a player at fee? Jogo your memory and tell me one.
Whisper it, the red eagles have in the recent past garnered a reputation of feasting on rejects, misfits and deadwood from other clubs in the name of “new recruits” – a stark contrast to their halcyon days.
A whilst they have an uncanny eye for a bargain too. And while newly appointed coach Kefa Kisala is beaming with optimism as he bids to reinstate normalcy at the sleeping giants, the club’s desolate transfer inactivity remains their prime Achilles heel, thanks to their well-documented financial woes.
It is the reason as to why Kisala’s pre-season training kick-started with open trials with players who make the grade and impress likely to be retained.
Kisala is restrained in the knowledge that as far as squad rebuilding goes, he is beginning from a clean slate.
Surviving relegation had a knock-on effect on the squad with many protagonists expected to leave Wankulukuku. But Kisala said spending on player recruitment wasn’t a worry as he embarks on building a competitive squad, insisting that unearthing and developing talented players can compensate with spending excess fees on player recruitment.
When asked if he expects any financial backing from his bosses on player transfers, Kisala, with the seriousness of an erection, replied ‘No’.
“We don’t need to spend money on new players because they are many who want to join us with an ambition to play football not to get money from the club, Kisala talked glowingly of the selected players from the week long trails.
“I am very impressed with the numbers that showed up and I am also happy with the quality they have exhibited.
“Uganda is blessed with so much talent but our only problem is how talent is developed, brought up and put into use.
“I have seen boys who have basics and I will only have to examine them more with some competitive friendlies.
The former BUL FC coach has a tough job on his hand to ensure that the club doesn’t descend to the depths of despair they experienced last season, a feat that tainted the club’s illustrious legacy.
“I believe we can finish in top 6 in my first campaign because this is a big club with a big history that should not be battling relegation.
“We hope to achieve that and later look at bigger targets.
Express narrowly escaped relegation last season, retaining their UPL status on the last day of the season thanks to a 1-0 win over Masavu FC in Bugonga.
