Walsall defender Vincent Harper earns first Kenya call-up for World Cup qualifiers

Walsall defender Vincent Harper has received his maiden call-up to the Kenya national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast.

The 25-year-old full-back, who was born in Kenya but has represented the England C team at non-league level, now takes a significant step in his international career by joining the Harambee Stars for the October fixtures.

Harper’s selection marks a notable addition for head coach Benni McCarthy, who is shaping his squad for two crucial Group qualifiers.

Kenya will host Burundi on Thursday, 9 October before taking on the Ivory Coast on Tuesday, 14 October.

Harper’s versatility and defensive pace have been key for Walsall this season, and his inclusion reflects the technical bench’s intent to strengthen the team’s rearguard ahead of two difficult matches.

Here’s the Kenya squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers:

Goalkeepers:

• Faruk Shikhalo
• Byrne Omondi
• Brian Bwire

Defenders:

• Manzur Suleiman
• Vincent Harper
• Sylvester Owino
• Alphonce Omija
• Collins Sichenje
• Michael Kibwage
• Ronney Onyango
• Abud Omar
• Daniel Sakari

Midfielders:

• Alpha Onyango
• Duke Abuya
• Timothy Ouma
• Ben Stanley
• Marvin Nabwire
• Austine Odhiambo

Wingers:

• William Lenkupae
• Job Ochieng
• Boniface Muchiri

Strikers:

• Michael Olunga
• Ryan Ogam
• Lawrence Okoth