Kelly Kester has told www.aclsports.com that his new club Hoang ANH Gia Lai offers him the much sought chance and exposure to play in another league.
Former Enyimba midfielder Kester was speaking for the first time since joining Vietnamese side Hoang ANH Gia Lai ahead of the 2020 V.League 1 season.
Kester had signed a two-year deal with NIgeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side Kano Pillars last October but swiftly moved to Vietnam after two league appearances with Sai Masu Gida this season.
“Well, it was difficult for me to turn down the offer (from Gia Lai) because it’s a chance to take my career to the next level,” began Kester to www.aclsports.com
“I have played in the NPFL for about six years now so this is an opportunity for me to play in another league.”
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Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country on the South China Sea known for its beaches, rivers, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities. There are not many Nigerian players in that country which is not painted in good light in Nigeria.
Former Golden Eaglets striker Ganiyu Oseni was the prominent name that has been in Vietnam until December 2019. Kester tells us though that it is a beautiful country.
“The reception from my club, teammates and even fans in the streets has been good so far.
“They are really welcoming, they have made me really comfortable, and Vietnam is a beautiful country contrary to what we hear back in Nigeria,” adds the lanky midfielder.
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Kester was known in the NPFL for his tenacity and graft on the pitch, while his height and commanding presence never go unnoticed in aerial duels.
The 27-year old has played both as a centre back and as a midfielder in his side’s pre-season friendly games, scoring once in four games. He may however be set for a defensive role for the team.
“The way the team plays here, I think I’m comfortable playing as a centre back if the coach wants me to but if I’m needed as a midfielder too, of course I will be ready to do a job there,” said Kester.
The 2020 V.League 1 will kick off on February 21, 2020 with Kester’s Hoang ANH Gia Lai hosting Than Quang Ninh on the opening weekend.
