Andy Cole, who travelled to Kenya over the weekend, has explained why he believes South African tactician Benni McCarthy will succeed as Harambee Stars coach.
Manchester United legend Andy Cole has explained why Benni McCarthy could be the man to take Kenyan football to new heights as head coach of the country’s national football team Harambee Stars.
Cole, who traveled to Kenya on Friday to conduct a football clinic at Nairobi’s Galaxy Football Academy – where he took 70 kids through their paces on Saturday -, is also set to take part in a watchalong of the Manchester derby with Kenyan fans at the Bar Next Door alongside Kiambu Road later on Sunday.
Speaking to the media after completing the training, Cole, expressed gratitude at being given the chance to return to Kenya, a country he has visited quite a number of times before
Harambee Stars midfielder Anthony has given reasons why Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy will soon surprise many after what he has seen from the South African legend.
“I’m looking forward to it with the Manchester United supporters, and fingers crossed, United will get a positive result so we can all have a good evening,” Cole said.
“Thank you to Kenya for giving me the opportunity to come back. I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far. Thank you very much for accepting me the way you have.”
Speaking on McCarthy’s appointment, the former Arsenal academy product explained why he thinks McCarthy – who was previously Manchester United assistant coach – will do a terrific job for the country.
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The top five clubs in Kenyan Premier League history have helped shape the country’s football legacy through their historic achievements, passionate fanbases, and consistent contributions to the growth of the sport.
“I think Benny will do a good job. I’ve known him for years. He came to England, did very well as a player, and even worked as a coach at Manchester United a couple of seasons ago,” Cole said.
“ I’ve always had a good relationship with him. He’s played European football, he’s won the European Cup, and I’d like to believe that, as a coach, he knows what he’s talking about. So yes, I think he’ll do very well.”
Cole, who also played for Newcastle United, Fulham, Portsmouth and Blackburn, also opined on the growth of African football in general, and gave a word of advice to Kenyan players on how they can make it at the highest level.
“ I think African football is definitely growing — getting stronger year in, year out. When you talk about African football, you have to look at the players playing in Europe.
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Mohammed Bajaber is reported to be attracting interest from clubs abroad and he has been told the most suitable European countries that will not waste his talents.
“ Unfortunately, there haven’t been too many Kenyan players breaking through in European football, but all they can do is keep working hard and striving — just like the rest of the players who represent them.”
Opining on his visit to the country, Cole waxed lyrical on the warm nature of the people in the country.
“Kenya is a great place. I’ve been fortunate to come here a few times, and the people have always been very hospitable — wonderful people who’ve welcomed me with open arms. What more can I say?”
Cole is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Premier League history with 187 goals. The 15-cap former England star used to hold the Premier League records for most goals scored in a 42-game season (34), the fastest player to score 50 goals (65 matches), and the first player to top both the Premier League’s goalscoring and assist charts in the same season (1993–94).
