Bandari Queens are preparing for one of their busiest transfer windows yet, with head coach Jonathan Washe confirming that the club is targeting eight new signings to stabilize an injury-hit squad ahead of the second half of the season.
With only 18 registered players — including three goalkeepers — the Queens have been forced into tactical improvisation, positional reshuffles, and heavy minutes for a stretched squad.
Washe admits that the situation has become increasingly unsustainable.
“We have only 18 players including three goalkeepers, so in short we have just 15 outfield players available for selection,” Washe explained.
“Right now we have injuries to three of our key first-team players, and some players are being forced to play even when they’re not fully ready.”
The lack of depth has hit the defensive and attacking departments especially hard. Bandari currently boast just one natural center back and a single striker, forcing the coaching staff to convert a right back into a central role simply to cope with league demands.
“I have identified some players so far,” Washe said. “In midfield we have only three players, in central defense we have one, and upfront we need at least three new attackers. When the time comes, we will reveal who fits our system.”
Despite the difficulties, Bandari Queens have maintained competitive form in the GWomen National Super League, securing two wins, two draws, and a single loss to place third on the log with eight points.
Their resilience has impressed many, but Washe insists that reinforcements are no longer optional — they’re essential.
“We are still pushing, but come January we will definitely need to boost our squad,” he emphasized. “If we want to maintain our momentum and challenge at the top, depth is the only way forward.”
The Queens now shift focus to this weekend’s highly anticipated Coast derby, where they will host Diani Queens at home.
Bandari head into the fixture with confidence, having already claimed bragging rights in the earlier derby against Mombasa Olympic.
Diani, however, sit eighth on the table with just three points from four matches and will be hungry to turn their season around.
By Mark Mutuku
