Courtesy of The Standard
Sher Karuturi goalkeeper Noah Ayuko has been sounded out to face Warriors of Zimbabwe on Sunday in place of injured Arnold Origi.
Ayuko’s inclusion in the squad could leave Gor Mahia’s Jactone Odhiambo and Tusker’s Joseph Ruto scraping for the other available slot.
The Sher custodian had initially been called up for the Namibia game, but was dropped after he lost his passport.
Ayuko was at the Immigration offices at Nyayo House on Monday seeking the replacement of the lost document.
Harambee Stars coaches, Francis Kimanzi, James Nandwa and Yusuf Chippo, were still working on the finer details of his inclusion by midday Monday.
SportFest understands the dreadlocked goalkeeper checked in at Harambee Stars’ Kasarani Camp last evening.
Contacted over the impending call-up, Ayuko said: "I have always been ready. I am confident that all will go on well so I can represent my country."
"I am really sorry that Origi is injured. He is such a great talent. He will bounce back, that I am sure of," Ayuko said of his counterpart.
And, Origi who cracked his patella on Saturday gave his blessings for whoever will stand between the posts at Harare’s Rufaro stadium.
Patrick Oboya (left), McDonald Mariga (centre) and Boniface Ambani training at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Tuesday. Photo/CHRIS OMOLLO/NATION MEDIA GROUP
"We have very able goalkeepers in this country. If it should be Jactone Odhiambo, Ayuko, Wilson Oburu, Francis Onyiso or David Okello I am confident they will do us proud in Zimbabwe, " Origi said from his Nairobi Hospital bed.
Ayuko has conceded five goals only after 12 rounds of KPL action. The other goalkeepers who were in the frame for selection were Thika United’s David Okello, Wilson Oburu (Bandari) and Francis Onyiso (Ulinzi).
Kimanzi and his coaching staff were also mulling over the midfield options after Patrick Oboya collected a second yellow card.
"We are yet to conclude on the next move, but there is no cause for alarm. We still have time and by this evening (yesterday) we shall have something to say," Kimanzi said.
Parma midfielder McDonald Mariga netted Harambee Stars’ first goal in their 2-0 over Zimbabwe but was carried off after an hour to be replaced by Kevin Ochieng.However, Wycliff Makangah, the team doctor says that it wasn't a serious injury.
McDonald Mariga grimaces in pain during Saturday's match/PHOTO COURTESY OF THE STANDARD
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