NEC FC have appointed assistant coach James Odoch as caretaker manager following the two-month suspension of head coach Hussein Mbalangu, the club announced this week.
Mbalangu’s suspension stems from his involvement with Ssingo in this year’s Masaza Cup, where he served on the technical team.
Club management saw this as a breach of commitment, especially amid growing pressure over NEC’s recent performances.
The decision follows a rough stretch for the “Die Hards,” who were knocked out early from the CAF Confederation Cup by Kenya’s Nairobi United and remain winless after two league matches.
Their latest game, a 2–2 draw with Police FC at Lugogo was particularly painful. NEC surrendered a two-goal lead, sparking frustration among fans and raising questions about the team’s focus.
In Mbalangu’s absence, Odoch steps up to steady the ship and rebuild confidence in the squad.
Known for his composure and tactical flexibility with his previous time at Express, he will have little time to settle in as NEC prepare to face Entebbe UPPC FC on Saturday, October 25, at Bugonga Fisheries Ground.
