McCarthy explains Ben Stanley's Harambee Stars call up after widespread backlash
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 26.03.26. | 20:37
Some stakeholders have questioned the selection, noting that Stanley is not a regular starter for his club
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has explained the rationale behind calling up Gor Mahia midfielder Ben Stanley for national duty, emphasising the player’s versatility as a key asset for the team.
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Stanley was summoned to replace striker Michael Olunga, who withdrew from the squad for the upcoming FIFA Series tournament in Rwanda due to injury.
Despite being a midfielder, Stanley was chosen to fill the void left by the country’s leading marksman, a decision that sparked wild debate among football fans.
Some stakeholders have questioned the selection, noting that Stanley is not a regular starter for his club. Others argued that in-form players like Joe Waithira or Zambia-based Moses Shumah could have been given the opportunity instead.
The South African coach, however, dismissed the criticism, insisting that Stanley is fully capable of performing in any role assigned to him.
“I suppose I would pick this one, but there is a method behind these selections. I can’t honestly tell you what Ben Stanley’s best position is, because I think Ben Stanley, if I play him at number nine, will do a very good job for me there,” said McCarthy.
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He elaborated on Stanley’s versatility within the team. “At number 10, he plays on the right midfield. On the left, in the last matches, I played him as a left-sided winger coming inside, almost as a second number 10. I like my players to have that kind of creativity.”
McCarthy also highlighted the importance of players being comfortable in multiple positions, explaining how it benefits the team.
“It takes them out of their comfort zone. But when they play in different positions, they develop an awareness of space and roles across the field.
Sometimes you are surprised by what a player can do in a new position, and that is exactly what we want.”
He added, “There is no fixed positioning. Everybody plays everywhere and develops their footballing skills. At this level, versatility is crucial. You are not just a one-dimensional player.”
Kenya will face Estonia in the opening match of the FIFA Series on Friday evening.
