Collins Sichenje: Kenya defender discusses Charlton debut – ‘It was nice’

Kenya national team defender Collins Sichenje was left in cloud nine after he made his debut Charlton Athletic in the EFL Championship as they battled Southampton to a 1-1 draw at St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday.

Charlton coach Nathan Jones handed a debut to the Harambee Stars defender, who joined the Addicks on the final day of the January transfer window.

Solid on his first start 👊

Collins Sichenje is your Player of the Match! 🌟#cafc pic.twitter.com/o92PSLHln8

— Charlton Athletic FC (@CAFCofficial) February 22, 2026

The former AFC Leopards player, in the FKF Premier League, played for 90 minutes before he was replaced.

‘The game was intense’

Speaking after the game, Sichenje, who was crowned man of the match, told Charlton website: “It feels amazing to be on the pitch and help the team get a very big point for us.

“The game was intense, it was nice. For me, I always believe in my qualities and it was a good opportunity to show that and do the right things.”

He added: “For me I always believe in my qualities. I know I can defend anyone, so I wasn’t afraid. It was also a good opportunity for me to show my qualities in defending. Happily, I did well.”

‘I wanted to celebrate in front of fans’

Sichenje was one of the first on the scene to celebrate with the fans when Carey scored his 67th-minute equaliser.

“I loved it,” he explained with a smile. “I was telling Sonny he will score and he scored today. It was a good moment for us so I wanted to celebrate in front of the fans with him.”

Collins cam 🎥

A Player of the Match performance from Sichenje on debut 💪#cafc pic.twitter.com/5e8JLWGzZx

— Charlton Athletic FC (@CAFCofficial) February 22, 2026

He concluded: “I liked the song and I hope they are going to sing more. I want to give them joy and help the team; this is just the start.”

After the game, Jones admitted to being impressed by the performance of the Kenyan player especially managing to stop Southampton on their home soil.

“Magnificent, to make his debut away at Southampton. To come into it without playing for a little while – he was wonderful,” said Jones.

He added: “The supporters were magnificent for a me all game. Our fans really warmed my heart today and I thank them for that.”

Sichenje will hope to keep his starting role when the Addicks return to The Valley on Saturday, February 28th when they host Wrexham.