Trio make stars debut as Mambo named captain

Three players without international experience made the cut as Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi named his final team travelling to Namibia on Thursday.

Stars take on Namibia on Saturday in a World Cup/Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.




Gor Mahia goalkeeper Jacktone Odhiambo was the biggest surprise making the team ahead of Tusker FC custodian Joseph Ruto, who was not picked for the Namibia match.

Odhiambo was dropped in his first call-up by former Stars coach Jacob Mulee when the team played Tanzania in a CAF Africa Championships qualifier in March.

Mathare United defenders, Kennedy Ayong and Anthony Kimani are the other new call-ups in the team that travels to Windhoek.

Kimanzi also announced that Swedish top division side GIF SundSvall mid-fielder Robert Mambo has been given the captain’s band.

"We looked around and after consulting the players it was decided that Mambo commands enough respect to be the captain," said Kimanzi during a press conference to unveil his side.

Asked about Star’s chances in Namibia, Kimanzi said," As things stand now the two teams have a point each because the score is 0-0. We obviously hope to win but if the match ends like this we will be happy," he said.

Kimanzi said morale was high in camp and they have no injuries and therefore expect to play well in Windhoek.

He revealed that none of the players remaining behind have been dropped and will be part of the squad to be considered for Kenya’s next game against Zimbabwe on June 7 in Nairobi.

"No one has been dropped. Those selected today are the ones who are needed for our opening match of the qualifiers," said Kimanzi who was accompanied by his two assistants Yussuf Chipo and James Nandwa.

Team captain Mambo said they are well motivated and remain confident to do well in Namibia.

"We do not have the same problems we have experienced before. We are well motivated in and outside the pitch and hope to do well," said Mambo serving his second stint as skipper.

Story/Picture Courtesy of THE STANDARD GROUP

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