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Football fans across Sierra Leone have been left stunned by widespread reports suggesting that former Leone Stars head coach John Keister is set to return as interim coach of the national team.
The rumours, which circulated heavily on social media earlier this week, have sparked mixed reactions among supporters of the national side.
Keister previously managed Leone Stars for more than two years and is widely credited with guiding Sierra Leone to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), ending a 25-year absence from the continental tournament. Despite that achievement, his tenure came to an end after the team failed to secure qualification for subsequent CAF and FIFA competitions.
The former coach is reportedly being considered to replace Mohamed Kallon, whose departure from the national team came under controversial circumstances. In a surprising twist, Kallon later submitted an application for the vacant coaching position when the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) officially advertised the role last month.
Kallon, a former Leone Stars captain and the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, remains a highly respected figure in Sierra Leonean football, with many supporters continuing to back his leadership of the national team.
If appointed, Keister could take charge of Leone Stars ahead of their scheduled two-legged friendly matches against neighbouring Liberia next week.
The reports have already generated debate among football supporters, particularly among loyal followers of Kallon, some of whom believe the former coach’s dismissal may have paved the way for Keister’s return.
Despite the speculation, the Sierra Leone Football Association has not yet announced the appointment of a new head coach. The association has, however, confirmed receiving applications from several local and international candidates as the search for the next Leone Stars coach continues.
