Kenyan defender David 'Cheche' Ochieng' is a victim in America as New York Cosmos FC closes down

North American Soccer League side New York Cosmos has closed down, sending home all the players including Kenyan defender David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng’.

The former giant club which returned to action in 2013 after 29 years of dormancy has been forced to end its operations once again even after emerging the league’s champions in November.

The development has been confirmed via a US media outlet Empire of Soccer which has indicated that all players and staff have been handed termination letters and arrears cleared.

It is sad news to the league and Cosmos fans but a big shock to Kenyans whose player has now been rendered jobless as at now. 'Cheche', who is described as a player with ‘incredible’ talent by Kefoca Secretary General Bob Oyugi, joined the club in February 2016 and is forced to be in the search for another club ten months later.

“I was in America in July and I watched 'Cheche' play. That lad is full of talent and I wish he gets another club soon in in order to continue showcasing his skills,” Oyugi told Goal.

Reports from America further state that only players and staff have been paid their arrears while boardroom and front office officials are counting nothing home even as the club closes. Fans have now come out to collect funds so as to rescue the employees under the banner ‘GoFundMe’.

“While so many of us wear our love for this club on our sleeves, our very livelihood isn’t determined by whether or not the Boys in Green take the field,” said the group in its press release. “Just like us, the front office employees are undeniably passionate in their love of the game. They work hard to spread the word and get fans to the games,” a statement on Empire of Soccer read.

“The League and owners have made questionable decisions with this club. We can’t put the toothpaste back in the tube, but as supporters, a club, and a family we can right one wrong, and give what we can to ensure the families of those furloughed get the holiday they deserve.”