Captain of the Kenyan National team Michael Olunga has expressed his disappointment over Kenya missing the ongoing AFCON qualifiers.
Harambee Stars was set to face Cameroon, Namibia, and Burundi early next year to battle for AFCON participation ticket, which was halted by the government’s interference in the affairs of running the local game, which resulted to suspension by FIFA.
“It is a dream of every player to participate in any major competition and of course it is tough watching other teams playing right now in the ongoing qualifiers. We would have wanted to participate as well, but this is something that was beyond our control and now, we are starting from somewhere which is preparations for the next assignments,” said Olunga.
Harambee Stars players had a day off yesterday after a 10am arrival in Tehran from Nairobi.
“All the players have shown quality and readiness for the challenge tomorrow in representing our country. It is going to be a first test against a good opponent, and we shall give our best to get desired results”. Olunga added.
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Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat explained why Benson Omalla, currently the Football Kenya Federation Premier League top scorer after netting 19 goals, failed the cut in the final team.
“First, I don’t want to talk about any individual player. If we start discussing that then we will not have time for training. It is good to give these players time, especially the young players. This way you give them pressure. Give them time and don’t be in a hurry.” Firat said.
Firat further noted that being a top scorer in a league doesn’t guarantee a player a position in the national team, stating that every player has a chance in his short- and long-term plans.