Newly Named Harambee Stars Captain Aboud Omar Defends Benni McCarthy and CHAN 2024 Selections

Newly appointed Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar has come out in strong support of head coach Benni McCarthy and his squad selections ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Omar takes over the captaincy from Michael Olunga, who is ineligible for the tournament due to CHAN's rule restricting participation to players based in domestic leagues.

Speaking during the team’s pre-CHAN press conference held on July 9 at Stadion Hotel, Kasarani, Omar offered a ringing endorsement of the squad and the coach’s approach.

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Omar, who recently won the FKF Premeir League with Kenya Police FC, dismissed any criticism surrounding the team’s composition, insisting that all selected players have earned their place.

"First of all, every player here in camp is a very good player," he said in an interview with Pulse Sports.

"I think every single one of them deserves to be here."

He added that the selection was not just about popularity or past performances but about current form and potential.

Omar also praised Benni McCarthy, the former South African striker, for bringing a unique edge to the team.

"I think on the coach, I don’t need to say much because he was a high-caliber player himself, so it's easier to have him as a coach," Omar said.

"He understands what a player needs and how to mingle. I think it's a boost for us and we are very lucky to have this kind of coach. I'm also happy to be part of this squad."

The new captain will lead a homegrown squad featuring standout talents such as midfielders Mohammed Bajaber and Austin Odhiambo, defenders Alphonce Omija and Sylvester Owino, and Bandari FC goalkeeper Farouk Shikhalo.

With Kenya co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, expectations are high, and Omar's leadership and public show of unity could be a timely boost for the squad’s morale.