New Faces in Benni McCarthy’s Squad for Palestine, Kyrgyzstan Friendlies
Caleb Kramer
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has named a dynamic 24-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Palestine and Kyrgyzstan.
Set for the June FIFA international window, these fixtures represent a vital stage in the team’s evolution. McCarthy’s selection strategy highlights a blend of battle-hardened regulars and a wave of fresh talent, aimed at building a robust foundation for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
The South African gaffer has prioritized stability by recalling key figures who have been the heartbeat of the team. Richard Odada, currently maintaining consistent form in Romania with UTA Arad has been named in the squad alongside Nejmeh SC’s Austine Odhiambo.
In a major boost for the defensive unit, Erick Ouma makes a highly anticipated return to the national team. The Rakow Czestochowa left-back has successfully navigated an intensive rehabilitation process following an Achilles injury that kept him sidelined for several months.
Complementing this experienced core is the inclusion of five debutants expected to inject new energy into the squad.
Among the new call-ups is the defensive duo of Deon Woodman and Sydney Agina. Woodman, currently making waves with Wealdstone FC, brings a physical presence to the backline, while Agina arrives with the pedigree of the Stoke City academy.
Further up the pitch, the coaching staff has turned its gaze toward European-based talent to sharpen the attack. Sammy Hena-Kamau of Hull City and Micah Obiero have been handed opportunities to prove their worth at the senior level.
Guarding the net, Caleb Kramer of ADO Den Haag joins the goalkeeping department, providing healthy competition for Byrne Omondi and Faruk Shikhalo.
These matches on June 3 and June 6 serve as a high-stakes laboratory for McCarthy to test these recruits under international pressure ahead of the road to 2027.
Full squad:
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi, Faruk Shikhalo, Caleb Kramer
Defenders: Erick Ouma, Stanley Wilson, Sylvester Owino, Frank Odhiambo, Alphonce Omija, Deon Woodman, Rooney Onyango, Sydney Agina
Midfielders: Richard Odada, Chris Erambo, Clarke Odour, Will Lenkupae, Austine Odhiambo, Zech Obiero
Forwards: Job Ochieng, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley, Sammy Hena-Kamau, Micah Obiero, Ryan Ogam, Lawrence Okoth
