Veteran coach Robert Matano has thrown his weight behind Victor Wanyama’s return to the national team, praising the former captain’s inclusion in Harambee Stars’ provisional squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Chad in Morocco this June.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsWanyama, 33, announced his retirement from international football in September 2021, a year after his last appearance, a 1-0 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying loss to Comoros on November 15, 2020.##NAJAVA_MECA_8952904##His comeback comes as new head coach Benni McCarthy assembles a squad with one eye on the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.Speaking to Citizen Digital, Matano, a multiple league-winning coach, supported McCarthy’s decision, highlighting the value of Wanyama’s leadership and international experience.“The coach knows his weaknesses and strengths. According to him, they are lacking experience in the team, and he needs someone who can help the young players to give them confidence and guidance,” said Matano.Wanyama, who currently plays for Scottish Championship side Dunfermline Athletic, was named in the 25-man provisional squad for the June fixtures but has since left the squad due to personal commitments.Joseph Okumu’s Reims relegated after playoff heartbreak against MetzThough Matano doesn’t expect him to be part of the AFCON 2027 squad, he believes the midfielder’s short-term presence will be vital.“Wanyama is coming in to try and sort the challenges the team is facing today. What the coach lacks in his team is what he wants Wanyama to mould in others,” he said. “He may not be there in 2027, but right now, his presence is important.”Matano also noted the importance of balancing youth with experience.“The team needs him. He’s more exposed and more experienced. The team needs a mix of both to build a solid side,” he added.Harambee Stars forward bows out of Iran with silverware as Esteghlal clinch Hazfi CupWanyama’s initial exit from the national team followed a period of being sidelined during Kenya’s 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign and a reported fallout with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).In an interview with BBC Africa, Wanyama confirmed talks with the South African coach.“I’ve spoken to him a few times, and he’s been trying to convince me to go back,” Wanyama said. “He’s a big manager. He’s been at Manchester United. Obviously, he’s experienced — and he’s the kind of leader Kenya needs.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8957778##McCarthy’s appointment, widely seen as a bold step by FKF, appears to have influenced Wanyama’s change of heart.
