Kimani believes current Stars squad has talent and depth to deliver positive outcomes

The Harambee Stars' assistant coach, Anthony Kimani, believes the current squad has the talent and depth necessary to deliver positive outcomes.

Kimani said the squad is experiencing fierce competition for positions, leading to a "serious selection headache," which reflects the wealth of talent available.

Kimani sees the intense rivalry among players as beneficial, enhancing training quality and overall performance for the national team.

He emphasised that the selection process remains open, encouraging players to perform well to attract the coach’s attention.

He believes the team's culture of competition is essential for success, fostering determination and a collective desire to represent the nation.

“We have selected the very best at the moment. There is still space for additional players to join, as the coach previously said. Now is a fantastic time for those who were chosen to demonstrate their abilities and guarantee their place moving forward," Kimani stated.

"That does not mean the door is closed. The national team is constantly changing. Any player who performs well will attract the coach's attention and may eventually join the team."

This philosophy, he reckons, fosters a culture of competition, essential for any team aspiring to achieve greatness.

Kimani noted a strong sense of unity among players, stating that shared goals significantly increase the team's potential for success.

Such an environment, he believes, not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens team cohesion.

"When players are united by a common goal, the potential for success multiplies exponentially," he said.

"The atmosphere in the camp is wonderful. All the players are trying their hardest. Everyone wants to represent the nation, and the enthusiasm is amazing, so they are giving us a serious selection headache."

At the helm of the Harambee Stars is manager Benni McCarthy, whose stint has been marked by a renewed vision for the team.

He named a 23-man squad for a series of friendly matches ahead of the eagerly-awaited 2024 Africa Nations Championship that will be held jointly by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in August.

The squad combines experienced players with emerging talents, aiming to redefine the team's future after past challenges.

The inclusion of notable names such as New Saints winger Adam Wilson and Alpha Onyango, alongside emerging talents like David Sakwa, highlights a strategic approach to team composition.

Moses Shumah of Kakamega Homeboyz and Alphance Omija of Gor Mahia, both of whom had missed recent call-ups, were also returning to the national team. The squad also included several new players, such as Kenneth Nyamwaya of Bidco United and versatile Bandari defender Swaleh Pamba.

The choices, however, caused controversy among local football supporters, some of whom feel that exceptional players from the National Super League (NSL) and FKF Premier League were left out. At first, former captain Victor Wanyama made a spectacular comeback but, however later left the team for unknown reasons.