Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has explained why Gor Mahia and Tusker players missed his first training session as the national team prepares for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon later this month.
McCarthy led his first training session with the national team on Wednesday at the newly renovated Ulinzi Complex, though some players from the 45-man provisional squad were unable to attend.
However, as they thoroughly prepare for the upcoming matches, McCarthy revealed the exact reason behind their absence.
“On the first day, I can say everyone was a bit nervous. They didn’t know me, and I didn’t know them, so it was a bit awkward. But so far, so good.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over Ksh 406 million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
I’m expecting to have around 17 or 18 players because Gor Mahia and Tusker asked the federation to give their players a pass, as they have important league matches this weekend,” McCarthy explained to FKF Media after his first session.
Some of the players from the two clubs who received calls ups include Brian Opondo, Chrispine Erambo, Eric Balecho and Ryan Ogam from Tusker.
Gor Mahia, which has the highest number of players called up from the local clubs, will be represented by Austin Odhiambo, defenders Sylvester Owino, Ronney Onyango, Alphonce Omija, as well as Ben Stanely, Lawrence Juma and Alpha Onyango.
All these players will be absent as Tusker aims to recover from their recent setback in the title race when they host Posta Rangers on Friday evening, while the reigning champions Gor Mahia will also look to close the gap to top spot when they face Bandari FC on Saturday evening at the Dandora Stadium.
ALSO READ: McCarthy leads first training session with Harambee Stars
In the World Cup qualifiers, Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F with five points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast (10 points), Gabon (9 points) and Burundi (7 points).
The former FC Porto player is hopeful of building a strong team despite the absences, and he remains optimistic about delivering positive results.
“We’re going to give Kenyans a team that works hard, fights, and strives to play good football. But most importantly, we’re going to give them a team that’s determined to win,” he added.
ALSO READ: Omanyala starts slow in season-opener in South Africa, Tebogo tastes defeat