George Gitau: Uncertain Future for Kenyan As Marske United Withdraws From Northern Premier League

George Gitau: Uncertain Future for Kenyan As Marske United Withdraws From Northern Premier League

Robert Abong'o
updated at January 5, 2024 at 10:39 AM
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  • Marske United have withdrawn from England's Northern Premier League
  • The league expressed regret over losing Marske under financial constraints
  • Kenyan George Gitau faces an uncertain future due to Marske’s withdrawal

Kenyan defender George Gitau faces an unexpected twist in his career at Marske United as the club officially withdraws from England's Northern Premier League.

The club, currently positioned 18th out of 22 teams, submitted its resignation on January 3, 2024, citing ongoing financial challenges throughout the season.

In an official statement, the Northern Premier League regretted Marske's departure, acknowledging the club's efforts to resolve financial issues.

Brentford's Michael Olakigbe (right) and Middlesbrough's George Gitau in action in a previous Premier League Cup match at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage on Monday January 30, 2023. Photo: Adam Davy.
Brentford's Michael Olakigbe and Middlesbrough's George Gitau battle for the ball during the Premier League Cup match at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage on Monday, January 30, 2023. Photo: Adam Davy.
Source: Getty Images
"Marske United FC tendered a resignation letter, backed by a unanimous decision from the club’s committee. We've been in constant communication with Marske’s chairman, Mark Hastings-Long, offering guidance. Despite his efforts to resolve the financial challenges, the accumulated monthly losses render the completion of the 2023/24 season unfeasible," read the statement as reported by Pulse Sports.

The league conveyed disappointment at losing Marske United under such circumstances and appreciated the club's recent contributions. The league board plans to discuss the matter further in the coming days.

This surprising development affects George Gitau, who had recently joined Marske United on loan in January after his stint with Middlesbrough.

The 20-year-old defender has made significant contributions to Middlesbrough's youth system since 2020.

Gitau's achievements, notably in the Under-18's success during the 2020/21 season and the Under-17's journey to the Premier League Cup final, showcased his talent. His performances in the Premier League 2, including a crucial goal in a draw against Aston Villa, demonstrated his potential.

A noteworthy moment in Gitau's career occurred in January when he was named on the bench for Middlesbrough during their FA Cup clash against Brighton. However, Marske United's withdrawal from the league introduces uncertainty into Gitau's immediate future in English football.

“This will provide Marske United with a platform to rebuild again properly in terms of organisation and infrastructure, and the club will survive. Thus, with a heavy heart the club informed the Northern Premier League and the FA of our decision to withdraw from the Northern Premier League Premier Division which has been accepted,” the club said on their offical website.

Kenyan compatriot Anyembe’s market value surges

Sports Brief reported that Harambee Stars defender Daniel Anyembe experienced a substantial surge in market value, upwards by over Ksh50 million.

The Danish-born player's market worth has risen from €400,000 (Ksh69 million) in December 2022 to €700,000 (Ksh121 million) in 2023.

The increase in market value can be attributed to his outstanding performances for Viborg and the national team.

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Robert Abong'o
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