Gor Mahia head coach Jonathan McKinstry has expressed confidence in steering the side to another title in the upcoming Kenyan Premier League season. 

The Irish gaffer spoke even as the traditional Kenyan giants intensified preparations ahead of the new season, set to begin on August 26.

The Kenyan behemoths will open their new season's campaign with a tricky tie against a revamped Sofapaka side at Moi Stadium, Kasarani on August 26.

"We enter the final week of our preparations in a determined mood. Still, plenty for Gor Mahia to do, but we are on the right track as we work to retain the Football Kenya Federation championship," the coach tweeted.

McKinstry tipped his charges to put aside a heart-wrenching experience that saw them locked out of the Caf Champions League over debts owed to former players.

"It was quite a daunting experience for everyone involved with the club. However, it was something completely out of our hands and there's nothing we could have done to salvage the situation," McKinstry said. 

"However, that's now water under the bridge and we can't spend a lot of our time lamenting about the unfortunate turn of events. We're professionals, and our focus now is on our next task, which is to do all we can to retain the league title."

McKinstry said he is planning to beef up his squad as he strives to assemble a razor-sharp striking force. 

Gor Mahia have already acquired the trio of Lawrence Juma from AS Kigali, Kevin Juma from Nzoia Sugar FC and goalkeeper Kevin Omondi from Sofapaka.

McKinstry gauged the potential of his new acquisitions in a build-up encounter against Murang'a Seal on Saturday, which they won 1-0 courtesy of Lloyd Kavuchi's goal.