Seven players from Gor Mahia have been honored with call-ups to join the national team, Harambee Stars, as they prepare for important matches against Gambia and Gabon on March 20 and March 24, respectively.
The first match will take place in Ivory Coast, while Kenya is set to host Gabon at home four days later, signifying a significant milestone as it will be the first competitive match held in the country in four years.
The last home game occurred during a World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in November 2021 at Nyayo National Stadium, where Kenya achieved a commendable victory of 2-1, thanks to goals from Michael Olunga and Richard Odada.
Under the guidance of new head coach Benni McCarthy, the provisional squad is expected to be announced by the end of the week. The team is scheduled to enter camp on Sunday. While seven players from Gor Mahia have received call-ups, it is anticipated that not all will make the final squad journeying to Ivory Coast on March 18.
Leading the group is last season’s FKF Premier League MVP, Austin Odhiambo, who has demonstrated excellent form following his recovery from injury and has scored four goals since returning to action.
Right-back Ronney Onyango, currently engaged in a trial in Norway, has also received a call-up, along with the defensive duo Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, both of whom played pivotal roles during Engin Firat’s tenure as head coach of Harambee Stars.
Additionally, the midfield trio of Lawrence Juma, Ben Stanley Omondi, and Alpha Onyango has been called upon. Juma is making a welcome return to the national team after a couple of years away, having successfully reclaimed his position in Gor Mahia’s starting lineup under coach Sinisa Mihic, which reflects positively on his recent performances. Alpha Onyango is also making a return to the national squad after a consistent run with Gor Mahia.
Notably, new signing Ben Stanley has been included despite not yet having featured for Gor Mahia since joining from Kakamega Homeboyz last month. His valuable experience includes participation in the Kenya squad during the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar.
News by Mozzart Sports.