Engin Firat explains why he included clubless Akumu in Harambee Stars squad

Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has explained why he included midfielder Anthony Akumu, who is currently clubless, into the senior National team squad that is set to participate in the Four Nations Tournament in Malawi.

The coach also hinted that the former Gor Mahia midfielder could join a new team "soon".

"Anthony is a top professional player and he has been training very well even though he is clubless. Physically he is in top shape. He has done well for us and there was no reason to omit him. He is joining a new team outside the country very soon." Firat said.

Akumu left Japanese top-tier side Sagan Tosu following the expiry of his contract in January and is said to have attracted interest from several clubs within Africa and also outside.

Gor Mahia leftback latest inclusion into Harambee Stars squad

At Sagan Tosu, he struggled to get game time and only featured sparingly in Cup games.

Another surprising call up to the National team is Bandari goalkeeper Bryne Odhiambo who has not played any competitive game since November 2023.

Harambee Stars provisional squad

Goalkeepers

Ian Otieno (Zesco-Zambia), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Odhiambo (Bandari), Bonphas Munyasa (Muranga Seal)

Defenders

Collins Sichenje (AIK-Sweden), Joseph Okumu (Reims-France), Johnstone Omurwa (Estrela-Portugal), Dennis Ng’ang’a (Zanaco Zambia), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg-Denmark), Amos Nondi (Ararat), Abud Omar (Kenya Police), Eric Ouma (Rakow-Poland)

Midfileders

Alphonce Omija (Dhofar-Oman), Kaycie Odhiambo (AFC Leopards), Chris Erambo (Tusker), Richard Odada (Aalborg-Denmark), Anthony Akumu (Sagan Tosu), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police), David Sakwa (Bandari), Shariff Musa (Gor Mahia), Ayub Timbe (Sebail-Azeberijan), Eric Johanna (UTA-Romania), Rooney Onyango (Gor Mahia)

Forwards

John Avire (Sekka), Michael Olunga (Duhail-Oman), Jonah Ayunga (ST. Mirren-Scotland), Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia)