Benni McCarthy’s First Squad Selection for Kenya National Football Team
Benni McCarthy has announced his first squad as head coach of the Kenya national football team, including three PSL players. With a robust technical team, McCarthy aims to enhance Kenya’s football status during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The extensive squad comprises goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, highlighting his strategic recruitment of players to tackle imminent challenges.
Benni McCarthy, the newly appointed head coach of the Kenya national football team, has announced his inaugural squad selection, which includes three players from the Betway Premier Soccer League (PSL). With a vision to elevate the Harambee Stars into a leading force in African football, McCarthy embarks on his role following a period of inactivity after his previous stint with Manchester United.
Before his tenure at Manchester United from 2022 to 2024, McCarthy had notable coaching experiences with Cape Town City FC and AmaZulu. His recent return to coaching came after speculation of a move back to AmaZulu, which ultimately did not materialize. In his new role, he is accompanied by a capable technical team, which includes goalkeeper coach Moeneeb Josephs, assistant coach Vasili Manousakis, and performance analyst Pilela Maposa.
On Tuesday, McCarthy announced his first squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon. The squad features notable PSL players: Brian Onyango from Stellenbosch FC, Ian Otieno of Richards Bay FC, and Brian Bwire from Polokwane City FC. Their inclusion indicates McCarthy’s reliance on talent from the PSL to bolster Kenya’s football aspirations.
The full squad comprises goalkeepers Brian Opondo, Faruk Shikhalo, Ian Otieno, and Brian Bwire, as well as defenders, midfielders, and forwards listed comprehensively, ensuring a balanced approach to the challenges ahead.
The defenders include Sylvester Owino and Ronney Onyango among others, while the midfield features Musa Katibi and Chris Erambo, and a diverse set of forwards including Michael Olunga and Boniface Muchiri. McCarthy’s strategic selection aims to optimize Kenya’s performance in the highly competitive qualifiers ahead.
In summary, Benni McCarthy has taken a significant step in his coaching career by selecting his first squad for the Kenya national team, incorporating three players from the Betway PSL. His prior coaching experiences and the formation of a robust technical team position him favorably as he seeks to uplift Kenyan football. The announced squad reflects a well-rounded mix of talent essential for competing in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The undertaking presents McCarthy with the opportunity to translate his expertise into success for the Harambee Stars.
Original Source: farpost.co.za
