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Engin Firat has explained why he dropped Elvis Rupia from the squad despite starting him in the previous assignments against Qatar and South Sudan.
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has revealed that he does “not really care” about people's perceptions and opinions of his squad selection policy, explaining why he dropped Elvis Rupia.
Rupia started both matches against Qatar and South Sudan in September as a winger but was subbed off early on both occasions. Eyebrows were raised as to why he was still left out of the squad considering he was not given enough chances in his preferred position and role.
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07:04 - 13.10.2023
STARS ABROAD Michael Olunga lists four career highlights since joining Qatar’s Al Duhail
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has revealed the achievements that give him the most joy since joining Qatar Stars League champions Al Duhail three years ago.
He was left out entirely for the Russia assignment. Other players who have been meriting international call ups such as Gor Mahia hotshot Benson Omala were also excluded from the squad, but players like Ovella Ochieng, who has been a free agent since his stint for South African outfit Richards Bay was included in the squad.
Speaking during one of the training sessions in Antalya, Turkey, Firat insisted his job was not to please everyone with his selections.
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15:30 - 11.10.2023
FOOTBALL Firat claps back at critics over Harambee Stars selection for Russia friendly
Coach Engin Firat staunchly defends Harambee Stars' selection for Russia friendly amidst criticism, emphasizing players’ potential and urging fan support.
“Look, the last two matches, for example, Elvis Rupia was in the starting lineup up and he was goal-getter number one in Kenya. He made a good money transfer to Tanzania but he is not with us now,” the Turkish gaffer said.
“Therefore sometimes, there are changes to the squad depending on the form and what the team needs but I really do not care if I have to answer to every player, because I would never finish (speaking) here.”
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16:20 - 12.10.2023
FOOTBALL Leicester City rising star sends selection message to Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat
Silko Thomas Otieno, Leicester City's rising star, remains available for a Harambee Stars call-up despite impressive performances in England.
The outspoken tactician insists that the door is still open for new players to come in and show what they can do.
“Everybody asks for his favorite players and the door is always open for every player here in Kenya and you see that we change sometimes.”
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18:00 - 11.10.2023
FOOTBALL Exeter City defender Vincent Harper voices expectations in Harambee Stars jersey
Exeter's Vincent Harper expresses high expectations joining Harambee Stars, anticipating successful matches ahead, including the friendly against Russia in Antalya.
The friendly against Russia, scheduled for Monday, October 16, in Antalya, Turkey, is seen as a pivotal preparation match for the Harambee Stars.
The team is looking forward to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to commence in November of this year.
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12:30 - 11.10.2023
STARS ABROAD Harambee Stars defender Mandela earns accolades from Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of Russia clash
Mamelodi Sundowns congratulates defender Brian Onyango Mandela for Harambee Stars call-up ahead of significant friendly match against Russia.
Kenya, drawn in Group F for the World Cup Qualifiers, will face off against a series of strong teams in Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles.
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