Kenya’s new head coach, Benni McCarthy, has included seven Gor Mahia players in the provisional squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Kenya will first face Ivory Coast on March 20, before hosting Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium.
Among the players called up from Gor Mahia is playmaker Austin Odhiambo. Odhiambo has been in impressive form, scoring 8 goals and providing several assists, catching the attention of the coach.
Another notable player is Ronney Onyango. Although Onyango is currently in Norway for trials, McCarthy is keen to take advantage of his versatility.
Also included in the squad are central defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonse Omija, who have been key figures in Gor Mahia’s defense this season. The last two players called up are Ben Stanley Omondi and Lawrence Juma.
The new Harambee Stars head coach will announce the full provisional squad this week. However, many players have already received their call-ups, including Brian Mandela Onyango, who plays for Stellenbosch FC in South Africa.
Currently, Kenya sits in 4th place in their group with 5 points. After being eliminated from the AFCON, these two matches are crucial for Kenya to advance in the World Cup qualifiers.
With six matches still remaining, McCarthy has the potential to lead Kenya out of the group if he delivers the expected performance.