With Michael Olunga absent for the June friendlies against Chad, certain players have a golden opportunity to impress Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy and stake their claim in the national team’s attack.
As Harambee Stars prepare for their upcoming international friendlies against Chad on June 7 and 10 in Morocco, all eyes are on how head coach Benni McCarthy will restructure his attack following the absence of captain and star striker Michael Olunga.
Olunga, who recently left Qatari side Al Duhail, was a surprise omission from McCarthy’s provisional and final squad.
His absence, though significant, has created a golden opportunity for emerging talents to step up and stake their claim in the national team.
Here are three players who are in prime position to impress the South African tactician in Morocco.
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Harambee Stars assistant coach Anthony ‘Modo’ Kimani has sent an inspirational message to local based players who were overlooked for the side’s two friendly games agaisnt Chad in Morocco ahead of the upcoming 2024 CHAN.
3. Moses Shumah – Kakamega Homeboyz
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Kakamega Homeboyz striker Moses Shumah has been given the nod to shoe in Harambee Stars striker position. (Photo Courtesy).
Despite being left out of the last Harambee Stars squad for the matches against Gambia and Gabon, Moses Shumah’s club form has been impossible to ignore.
The Kakamega Homeboyz striker is currently the joint top scorer in the FKF Premier League with 16 goals, tied with Emmanuel Osoro of FC Talanta.
Shumah’s clinical finishing and physical presence make him a natural option to replace Olunga in the center-forward role.
With consistent performances in front of goal, he now has the perfect chance to turn domestic dominance into international recognition.
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2. Emmanuel Osoro – FC Talanta
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Emmanuel Osoro in fine form and in Harambee Stars squad. Photo: FKF Premier League
One of the hottest prospects in Kenyan football right now, Emmanuel Osoro’s inclusion in the Harambee Stars squad is well-deserved.
The FC Talanta striker has enjoyed a breakout season, netting 16 goals in the FKF Premier League and catching the attention of fans and selectors alike.
Osoro could be the surprise package for McCarthy, especially in a system that favors quick transitions and aggressive pressing.
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1. Beja Nyamawi – Bandari FC
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Bandari Goalscoring Sensation Beja Nyamawi Revels in ‘Dream’ Call Up to Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars Set UpC) Image || FKF
Another new face in the Harambee Stars camp is Bandari FC’s Beja Nyamawi.
Known for his versatility and work rate, Nyamawi has been instrumental in Bandari’s push for a top-four finish this season.
Though not as prolific in front of goal as Osoro or Shumah, his intelligence on and off the ball offers a different dimension to the Stars’ forward line.
Nyamawi expressed his delight at being called up and will be keen to repay the faith shown by McCarthy and prove he belongs on the international stage.
While Olunga’s absence is undoubtedly a setback, it also marks the beginning of a new era for Harambee Stars.
Benni McCarthy, who has emphasized merit and form since taking over, will be watching closely to see who can rise to the occasion.
