AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda believes they have what it takes to finish in the top five positions despite their poor start to start to the season.

Shikanda affirmed that it’s a new dawn at Leopards Den and they have laid strategies to scale up the ladder under the tutelage of their new coach Tomas Trucha. “We want to put a new structure in place to help Leopards win the league title again,” he said.

He said they currently have a squad of 30 players up from 15 last season. Before that, Shikanda revealed they were forced to operate with only 12 players.

“I am not worried about our current position because the league is a marathon and we have a long way to go. I must say with the current number of players, we are spoilt for choice. We may just have the last laugh because until one crosses the finish line, anything can happen,” he added.

Shikanda said the newly appointed Czech coach has been aligned with the players and given Key Performance Indicators, which he must attain.

Shikanda said success is not just about the coach and players' mentality must also change if they are to fly Ingwe’s flag higher. He cited the addition of goalkeeper trainer Haggai Azandi as an added advantage.

Meanwhile, former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars player Sammy Owino Owino has expressed interest in running for the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) top seat.

 Owino affirmed his support for the community clubs, AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia, saying if given a chance, he will would build on the gains made so far. Owino, who is currently based in the US, said he is back in the country and keen to lead the football fraternity.

“My goal is to lead football in the right direction given an opportunity. Currently, there is chaos in football and it’s time we brought this to an end and opened a new chapter. We must put structures in place,” he added.