Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made several late changes to his squad ahead of Kenya’s upcoming two-legged international friendly matches against Lesotho in June.
The South African tactician has handed call-ups to AFC Leopards midfielder Kelly Madada, FK Partizani’s Amos Nondi, and Polokwane City goalkeeper Brian Bwire as he continues to assess his options ahead of crucial assignments later this year.
Madada’s inclusion comes after an impressive campaign in the FKF Premier League with AFC Leopards, while Nondi returns to the national team fold following consistent performances in Albania. Goalkeeper Brian Bwire also earns a recall despite limited playing time at South African side Polokwane City.
The changes have, however, seen several players miss out on the final travelling squad. Gor Mahia goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, Real Sociedad youngster Job Ochieng, and Wolfsberger AC forward Ryan Ogam have all been dropped from the initial selection.
McCarthy has retained a strong blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent as he seeks to build a competitive side ahead of future FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya will co-host.
The squad features established stars such as Erick Ouma, Richard Odada, Rooney Onyango and Austin Odhiambo, alongside promising young players including Sydney Agina, Zech Obiero and Sammy Henia-Kamau.
Goalkeepers
– Brian Bwire (Polokwane City)
– Faruk Shikhalo (St George)
– Caleb Kramer (ADO Den Haag)
Defenders
– Erick Ouma (Raków Częstochowa)
– Stanley Wilson (AIK Fotboll)
– Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia)
– Frank Odhiambo (Gor Mahia)
– Alphonse Omija (Étoile du Sahel)
– Deon Woodman (Wealdstone FC)
– Rooney Onyango (Sogndal)
– Sydney Agina (Stoke City)
Midfielders
– Richard Odada (UTA Arad)
– Chris Erambo (Tusker FC)
– Clarke Oduor (Grimsby Town)
– William Lenkupae (Free Agent)
– Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards)
– Mohammed Bajaber (Simba SC)
– Amos Nondi (FK Partizani)
Forwards
– Austin Odhiambo (Nejmeh SC)
– Zech Obiero (Leyton Orient)
– Ben Stanley (Gor Mahia)
– Micah Obiero (Wealdstone FC)
– Sammy Henia-Kamau (Hull City)
– Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinäjoki)
The two friendly matches against Lesotho are expected to provide McCarthy with an opportunity to evaluate player combinations, improve team chemistry and give fringe players a chance to stake their claim for regular places in the national team setup.
With Kenya’s international calendar becoming increasingly competitive, the friendlies will serve as an important test for the Harambee Stars as preparations continue for upcoming continental and global assignments.
