NAIROBI, Kenya, November 17- Harambee Stars will announce the squad for the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) Senior Challenge Cup on Thursday.
Stars team manager Edward Oduor told Capital Sport that the team will assemble on Sunday evening at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani to prepare for the tournament that starts on November 28th.
“The bulk of the team will be made up of local based players and a few of the professionals who have been with us for the last few weeks,” said Oduor.
Swedish based Patrick Osiako, Allan Wanga and goal keeper Willis Ochieng are expected to feature in the 36th edition of the regional competition.
Twahir Muhiddin who took over from embattled German tactician Antoine Hey ahead of last weekend’s Cup of Nations qualifier against the Nigeria will continue in his role after a marked improvement in his side’s performance against the Super Eagles.
Stars will be hoping to redeem themselves after a torrid qualifying campaign following the controversial sacking of former coach Francis Kimanzi who took them to the final of the last tournament where they lost 1-0 to hosts Uganda in a thrilling encounter.
Stars then also relied on local based players including Mathare United defender Edgar Ochieng who captained the side.
Former Mathare United striker Francis Ouma finished second on the top goal scorers list with four strikes
The Cranes as well as three time champions Sudan and Rwanda are regarded as favourites to lift the title.
The two week tournament will be staged at Nyayo National Stadium and Mumias Sports Complex.
Africa’s oldest tournament received a timely boost last when they secured a Sh13million sponsorship deal from Telkom Kenya through their Orange brand.