Fast-rising KCB centre back Haniff Wesonga has revealed why he pulled out of the national U23 team that is in South Africa for the COSAFA tournament.Wesonga left the camp barely hours to departure with his place interestingly being filled by Kakamega Homeboyz forward Moses Shumah.Given his experience in the top flight and having been considered for the senior national team duties last year, Wesonga would have definitely been a key player for the Emerging Stars.##NAJAVA_MECA_8180864##Wesonga told Mozzart Sport that KCB requested the U23 technical bench to exempt him from the trip to South Africa in the interest of the Mozzart Bet Cup final set for this weekend.The bankers are set to face Kenya Police this weekend in the final with Kariobangi Sharks playing AFC Leopards in the third-place playoff.With KCB set to miss two of their senior players in the final, withdrawing Wesonga from national duty was justifiable at least in the eyes of several football enthusiasts on social media.Homeboyz forward Moses Shumah in U23 final squad despite seven-month goal droughtCoach Bernard Mwalala will have to do without the services of his assistant captain and defensive midfielder Brian Ochieng and forward Derrick Otanga.The duo picked yellow cards in the quarters against Kakamega Homeboyz and in the semis against Kariobangi Sharks.”I was informed that KCB asked the U23 bench to release me. I had no choice other than to withdraw from camp,” he disclosed.Wesonga, who is two seasons old in the top flight, somewhat expressed disappointment with his removal from the national team.He argued that he had worked hard in camp to make the cut only to be informed of the decision by his employer to pack bags and proceed to the camp preparing for the final.Gor Mahia hoping to break CAF Champions League group stage jinx next season”I had worked extremely hard in camp hoping to make the final team and probably get playing time in South Africa. I had my mind and focus fully fixed on the COSAFA tournament but as a player, you have to be ready for disappointment,” he expressed his thoughts.Despite the heartbreak, Wesonga says he has moved on and will give his best in the final.”There is nothing I can do to change what has already happened. I am focused on giving my best in the final and help the team win the title,” he added.
