McCarthy clears air on presence of experienced midfielder in Harambee Stars camp

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has set the record straight regarding the presence of midfielder Anthony Akumu in the camp ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).Akumu, who was not named in the provisional 30-man squad released earlier this month, joined in, raising eyebrows and sparking speculation among fans and media.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsHowever, speaking to the press on Wednesday afternoon, McCarthy clarified that the experienced midfielder is only training with the team to maintain fitness and that he will not feature in the tournament.”I always have an open-door policy for both local and international players. Akumu requested to train with the team to keep fit as he weighs his next move, and as a coach, I saw no harm in granting him that opportunity,” McCarthy explained. “He is not part of the CHAN squad; he is just here training,” he added.##NAJAVA_MECA_9021054##Akumu is currently unattached after parting ways with Iranian side Kheybar Khorramabad, following the expiry of his one-year contract.The 32-year-old utility player has previously featured for clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs, Zesco United, and Gor Mahia, and remains keen on securing a new challenge abroad.This is not the first time Akumu has trained with the national team during a transitional phase in his career. McCarthy explains inclusion of injured Bajaber in Harambee Stars CHAN squadLast month, he joined the squad in Morocco ahead of their international friendlies against Chad, where he also clarified that his involvement was solely for fitness purposes.”There is no chance of me returning to the local league anytime soon,” Akumu had stated at the time.“We are in discussions with my representatives, and I will announce my next destination soon. I am thankful to the coach for allowing me to train and stay in shape while I am still in the country,” he said.Meanwhile, the national team stepped up its preparations on Wednesday, with Kenya Police FC midfielder Marvin Nabwire and goalkeeper Bryne Omondi joining the camp.In a show of solidarity, President William Ruto made an impromptu visit to the team’s training ground, offering a morale boost as the team finalizes its preparations.”I do not need to convince anybody”: McCarthy responds to striker’s exit from Harambee Stars squadDuring the visit, the Head of State inspected the newly refurbished facility and assured the players of full government support throughout the tournament.”I want to assure you that the government is fully behind you. We believe in your ability to bring glory to the nation,” President Ruto told the players.The 2024 CHAN tournament, reserved for players featuring in domestic leagues, will run from 2 to 30 August, with all of Kenya’s Group A matches scheduled to be played at the iconic Kasarani Stadium. History-making Junior Starlets coach selected for prestigious FIFA programKenya has been drawn in a challenging group alongside two-time champions Morocco and the DRC Congo, with Zambia and Angola.

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