Benni McCarthy, appointed as head coach of Kenya’s national team, has selected three PSL players for his first squad as they prepare for FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His experience includes previous coaching stints at Manchester United and two PSL teams. The announcement showcases a diverse squad aimed at elevating Kenyan football.
Benni McCarthy, the new head coach of the Kenya national team, has made headlines by selecting three players from the Betway Premiership for his inaugural squad. This selection comes as McCarthy begins his tenure with the goal of elevating the Harambee Stars to a position of prominence within African football.
Having recently departed from a coaching role at Manchester United, where he served as a striker coach, McCarthy brings valuable experience back to the pitch. Previously, he managed Cape Town City FC and AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership before joining Manchester United. His return to coaching is marked by this new opportunity with the Kenyan national team.
In his first squad announcement on Tuesday for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon, McCarthy highlighted his selection of players from the PSL, which includes Brian Onyango (Stellenbosch FC), Ian Otieno (Richards Bay FC), and Brian Bwire (Polokwane City FC). This strategic inclusion emphasizes McCarthy’s intent to leverage talent from the Betway Premiership in shaping the future of Kenyan football.
The complete preliminary squad features goalkeepers Brian Opondo, Faruk Shikhalo, Ian Otieno, and Brian Bwire. In the defense, players include Sylvester Owino, Ronney Onyango, and Brian Onyango among others. The midfield boasts talents such as Musa Katibi and Lawrence Juma, while an array of forwards is led by notable names including Michael Olunga and Edward Omondi.
In conclusion, Benni McCarthy’s inaugural selection as the head coach of the Kenya national team has successfully integrated key players from the Betway Premiership, illustrating his strategic vision for the squad. His prior coaching experiences, coupled with the representation of PSL players, may significantly contribute to the team’s performance as they prepare for the World Cup qualifiers. McCarthy’s ability to assemble a robust team will be crucial in advancing Kenya’s footballing ambitions on the continental stage.
Original Source: farpost.co.za
