Who is Collins Sichenje?

Well, it’s a good question. There aren’t many people who can claim they are Collins Sichenje experts and those who can are unlikely to be Charlton fans. Let’s try and figure it out.

Sichenje is a 22 year old Kenyan international central defender who was born in Butere in the west of the country. He made the move to Nairobi to start his career at AFC Leopards before moving to Europe for a short spell with Greek side PAOK B. He then moved to AIK in Sweden on a four year deal but failed to make an impact. A loan switch to KuPS in Finland saw him settle, making  23 appearances for the top flight club. A further loan deal to Serbian side Vojvodina followed and after impressing, was made permanent. Sichenje made 52 appearances for Vojvodina, including in the qualifying rounds of the Europa League. The defender has a total of seventy senior appearances but has also made eight appearances for his country and will no doubt aim to make more

There are limited highlights available to watch but it’s pretty clear why Nathan Jones picked the Kenyan out. The aggression that Sichenje seems to play with seems tailor-made for the Addicks and his height should make him valuable from set pieces at both ends. In one highlight he turns into Lloyd Jones and heads away a fizzed shot that was going to cannon into his chest. The Kenyan’s passing stats are pretty good, completion sitting around 85% and he seems to be an impressive tackler. Some reports have said Sichenje is erratic and has a habit of getting sent off. He has accumulated four yellows and two reds already this season. Maybe a combination of Naby Sarr and Ryan Innis?

Nathan Jones told the club website "We’re thrilled to add Collins, who is a defender that we’ve been tracking for a long, long time. He’s an aggressive, front-footed centre-back who is only 22 years of age, so he’s one that can grow with us and one that we’re excited to be welcoming to the football club.”

Collins, who has signed a three and a half year deal added: "It feels amazing to be here. It’s a good club with a good project and I’m ready to start working. It’s a big step for my career. It’s a good opportunity to keep working, developing and help the team, so I just need to be humble and keep working - that’s the goal.”

 

Welcome to SE7, Collins.