Ulinzi Stars FC winger Boniface Muchiri is thrilled to be back in the national team after a three-year absence and is determined to make the most of his return.The soldiers’ assistant captain last featured for Kenya in 2021 while playing for Tusker FC. Despite some strong performances since joining Ulinzi Stars, including a near double-digit tally in goals and assists last season, he remained out of the Harambee Stars setup.##NAJAVA_MECA_8380224##On Wednesday 2 October, Muchiri was named in coach Engin Firat’s squad for Kenya’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Cameroon, marking a long-awaited return.Speaking to the club’s media, he expressed his joy and gratitude. “I feel great; I’m happy and thankful for this opportunity. I’ve been working hard, and as they say, God’s timing is perfect. I’m eager to give my best for the country and help achieve positive results.”Muchiri also reflected on the support he’s received from the national team coaches, even during his absence. Coach Firat and assistant coach William Muluya maintained contact, advising him on areas to improve. This gave him hope that his chance would come.“The coaches were always in touch, even though I wasn’t getting call-ups. After my first season at Ulinzi Stars, Coach Firat told me I was still in his plans. I later met Coach Muluya, who gave me advice after a game against Kariobangi Sharks. I took everything positively and kept working hard, knowing my time would come.”Muchiri credited his mother for her constant encouragement during his time out of the national team. “My mother always kept my spirits up. Whenever I felt discouraged, she reminded me to stay patient and keep working hard.”Why Benson Omala may not play for Harambee Stars for a whileFull Provisional SquadGoalkeepers: Ian Otieno (Richards Bay FC), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Omondi (Bandari)Defenders: Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg), Amos Nondi (Ararat), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Johnstone Omurwa (Abha), Collins Sichenje (Vojvodina), Joseph Okumu (Reims), Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia), Eric Ouma (Rakow)Midfielders: David Odoyo (Tusker), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker), Richard Odada (Dundee United), John Ochieng (Zanaco), Timothy Ouma (Elfsborg), Anthony Akumu (Kheybar), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Alfred Scriven (Bryne FK), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia)Forwards: John Avire (El Sekka El Hadid), Michael Olunga (Duhail-Oman), Jonah Ayunga (ST. Mirren-Scotland), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Sydney Lokale (AFC Leopards)Where will Harambee Stars land as CHAN 2024 qualifiers draw is conducted?
