Rising Stars and Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) striker Lawrence Okoth has opened up about the sentimental reason behind his choice of jersey number 14 at the ongoing U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News Okoth was part of the 26-man squad that made history by representing Kenya at the continental showpiece for the very first time.##NAJAVA_MECA_8931520##The young forward was one of the team’s standout performers, scoring two goals against Morocco and Tunisia, and selflessly passing up a chance to net a third by handing over a penalty to Kelvin Wangaya in the final group game against Nigeria.Despite his sharp finishing, commanding presence up front, and relentless work ethic, it was his choice of jersey number 14 that sparked curiosity and admiration from fans back home.The number 14 shirt is famously worn by Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga, both at national team level and with his Qatari club, Al Duhail SC.Okoth, who has drawn comparisons to Olunga due to his stature, playing style, and clinical instincts in front of goal, explained the origin of the iconic jersey selection.“I took the number when we were going for CECAFA. Most of my teammates started calling me Olunga, and that’s when the kit manager, Oliver Onyiso, decided to give me the number,” he told Mozzart Sport.Gor Mahia collect meagre ticket sales revenue from match against City StarsThe 18-year-old understands the significance of donning such a revered jersey and is taking a patient, humble approach as he works toward one day earning it at senior national team level.“It feels good to be compared to a national hero. It comes with its own weight, but at the same time, it pushes me to keep working hard. My dream is to eventually take over that position at Harambee Stars when he hangs up his boots,” Okoth added.While he has not had the chance to speak to Olunga in depth or interact with him closely, the MOFA talent says the captain remains his greatest inspiration.##NAJAVA_MECA_8931528##“To be honest, we haven’t sat down and discussed anything personally. But he inspires all of us whenever he’s around. We all want to be like him and make Kenya proud. I’m also grateful to him for giving us a platform through his academy.”Okoth, who can also operate as a right winger, admits his club season in the National Super League (NSL) has been inconsistent due to national team duties.Still, he has managed to score seven goals, with six matches left in the season.“I want to catch up with the team, keep scoring, and hopefully reach at least 10 goals before the season ends. Then we’ll see what next season has in store,” he concluded.Red cards, rants, and repercussions: KHU’s disciplinary committee on the spot
