NAIROBI, Kenya, November 14- Harambee Stars will not break camp after plating Seychelles on Tuesday with preparations for the upcoming CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup in Tanzania setting in.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Stars head coach, Francis Kimanzi said he had called up five new additions to replace the players that will leave for their foreign sides after the 2014 World Cup pre-qualifier.
Kevin Serenge (Western Stima), Victor Ochieng (Chemelil), Yusuf Juma (Thika United), Gor Mahia forward Edwin Lavatsa and Ulinzi Stars custodian Jackton Odhiambo will be added to the side.
“The final list is expected by CECAFA is on Sunday so there is no time left, we have to continue our preparations. I believe we have the potential to be back at the top of the region despite the fact that we have had poor results at the tournament of late,” Kimanzi asserted.
AJ Auxerre striker and captain, Dennis Oliech, FK Moss keeper, Arnold Origi and Celtic FC midfielder, Victor Mugubi will be released to rejoin their sides.
FK Tirana defender, James Situma and South Africa based centre-back Dennis Odhiambo will however, feature in the regional tournament the team last won in 2007.
Kenya have been pooled with Malawi and Eritrea in Group C of the tournament that runs from November 25 to December 10.
“So far, I know only about Uganda since I watched them recently but I will focus on preparing my team for the tournament. With good preparations and motivations, I believe we can go all the way,” the coach added.
Ochieng had already reported to camp and trained with the team on Monday afternoon at City Stadium. The rest are expected to join the team on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“I will only release those players who will be featuring in the league matches since we cannot afford to stop training. I will also discuss with the Kenyan Premier League for them to move their last games forward by a day,” Kimanzi stated.
– By Gloria Kendi