Former national team player Elijah Onsika has urged the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to act swiftly and appoint ex-Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy as the new head coach of the Kenya national team, Harambee Stars.FKF has identified McCarthy as the man for the job following the departure of Engin Firat, who had managed the team for over three years.Firat resigned, citing the federation’s failure to pay him for 12 months and has since demanded full payment, threatening legal action if his dues are not settled.##NAJAVA_MECA_8617974##Onsika has weighed in on the matter, emphasizing McCarthy’s qualifications for the role and calling on FKF to proceed with the appointment. He believes McCarthy is the right person for the job, citing his knowledge of African football.“When I read that FKF was considering McCarthy for the role on a permanent basis, I didn’t hesitate. I thought to myself, we need him immediately. He has the expertise in African football and can be the ideal replacement for Engin (Firat),” Onsika told Flashscore.He also cautioned FKF against further delays, warning that the coach’s services are in high demand and another club or nation might offer him a position.“McCarthy is a man on demand because of his achievements, both as a player and a coach. FKF must act quickly to secure him, or he might accept another offer and turn down Kenya.”CAF U-17 GIFT: Kenya Elite demolish South Sudanese side to take charge of groupOnsika believes that McCarthy, whose most recent role was at Manchester United as a forwards’ coach, made a significant impact at the club. In his first season, Marcus Rashford achieved a career-high 30 goals, with much of the credit going to McCarthy’s influence.“Recently, he was with Manchester United, and you could see how he shaped their strikers. His impact on the team was evident. He was also a talented striker during his playing days, and coming to Kenya, he will help local players develop their skills. He will have the opportunity to work with Michael Olunga and help him grow further.”’I do not play for the team, I play for my mum’ – Sofapaka’s Baron OchiengHe also urged FKF to ensure that Kenyan coaches are included in the technical bench, to be led by McCarthy. He believes this would inspire local coaches and help build confidence within the coaching community.“Since FKF has chosen McCarthy, I have no issue with that, but the technical bench must be balanced. We should not exclude Kenyan coaches. If McCarthy is appointed, he should have at least one or two local coaches on his team,” Onsika explained.“By doing this, FKF will demonstrate trust in the local coaches and boost their morale. For example, Firat had at least four coaches, including a goalkeeper trainer, and this is the approach we should take.”Star striker seeks exit from AFC Leopards##EDITORS_CHOICE##
