SIMBA SC striker Steven Mukwala has urged fans to be patient as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

Mukwala (pictured), who joined Simba last month from Ghanaian side Asante Kotoko, emphasized that the players understand the challenge of reclaiming the Mainland Premier League title, which the club has missed out on for the past three seasons.

Mukwala, who signed a three-year deal with Simba, made a significant impact during his time at Asante Kotoko, netting over 25 goals in 65 league appearances. Before his stint in Ghana, Mukwala played for Ugandan side URA FC. 

In his first season with Asante Kotoko, he scored 11 goals, followed by an impressive 14-goal tally in the recently concluded season, including a memorable brace against Hearts of Oak in the Super Clash.

The Uganda Cranes attacker is currently in Ismailia, Egypt, where Simba is holding their pre-season training camp under the guidance of new head coach Fadlu Davids, who joined from Raja Casablanca, where he served as an assistant coach.

The 24-year-old striker expressed the team's collective desire to win major trophies, highlighting the shared goal from the club's leadership, technical bench, and players.

"Before joining Simba, I spoke with the leadership and even past players like Emmanuel Okwi. They impressed upon me the significance of playing for Simba and the fans' burning desire to see the club lift a major trophy. 

“The club has undergone several changes, and winning trophies is a shared goal. I urge the fans to be patient with us as we build momentum under coach Davids. He's one of the best coaches in Africa, and I believe together we can achieve our dream as a club," Mukwala said.

Mukwala's move to Simba marks a new chapter in his career, capitalizing on his reputation as a prolific scorer. The Ugandan international's signing is a significant boost to Simba's attacking lineup, and fans can expect exciting performances from the talented striker.

"Joining a giant club like Simba, one of the biggest clubs in CECAFA and Africa, requires constant effort to maintain their success and deliver for the club," Mukwala said. "Having played for Asante Kotoko in Ghana, I know how to handle pressure. While the culture here is different, I will adapt and use both internal and external pressure as motivation to excel."

With his impressive goal-scoring record and experience in the Ghana Premier League, Mukwala is poised to make a significant impact in Tanzanian football. 

The attacker, who has donned the national team jersey 15 times and scored one goal, will vie for the starting position at the club with Freddy Kouablan, who joined Simba in January and scored 11 goals in all competitions last season, along with Valentino Mashaka who joined from Geita Gold.

As Simba gear up for a busy season, Mukwala's presence is expected to strengthen their attacking prowess and help the club achieve its ambitious goals.