Benni McCarthy names Kenya squad for FIFA Series in Kigali

Kenya have confirmed their final 23-man squad for the upcoming FIFA Series in Kigali after a number of enforced changes due to injuries and player unavailability.

Head coach Benni McCarthy unveiled the revised list following several withdrawals, with the adjustments shaping the group that will represent the Harambee Stars during the international window.

The changes come after multiple players were ruled out, prompting the coaching staff to reassess their options before settling on the final squad. The selected players are now set to travel to Rwanda as preparations continue for the tournament.

The team is scheduled to depart Kenya on Tuesday morning, 24 March, ahead of their participation in the FIFA Series taking place in Kigali.

The confirmed squad includes three goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Brian Bwire and Ian Otieno. In defence, the team will rely on Manzur Okwaro, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Mike Kibwage, Frank Odhiambo, Rooney Onyango and Daniel Sakari.

Midfield options feature Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Richard Odada, Chrispine Erambo, Austine Odhiambo, Will Lenkupae and Mohammed Bajaber. The attacking line is made up of Job Ochieng, Zech Obiero, Clarke Oduor, Ryan Ogam, Lawrence Okoth and Ben Stanley.

Several notable absentees will miss the tournament due to injury. These include Bryne Omondi, Erick Ouma, Joseph Okumu, Sylvester Owino, Collins Sichenje, Tyler Onyango, Andre Gitau, Adam Wilson, Jonah Ayunga and Michael Olunga.

In addition, Daniel Anyembe and Zak Vyner are unavailable for selection during this international break, further limiting the pool of players available to the coaching staff.

The reshaped squad reflects the challenges faced by the team in assembling a full-strength group, with injuries and eligibility issues playing a significant role. Despite these setbacks, Kenya will proceed with a squad adjusted to meet the demands of the competition.

Attention will now turn to how the selected players adapt ahead of the tournament in Kigali, where the Harambee Stars aim to make the most of the international fixtures despite the disruptions to their original plans.