Nairobi United’s Kevin Otiende during a Harambee Stars training session at Nyayo Stadium /HANDOUTHarambee Stars and Wolfsberger striker Ryan Ogam has highlighted the importance of new players in the Harambee Stars squad as the team prepares for two high-profile friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal in Turkey.
The Austria-based striker believes fresh talent injects energy, enthusiasm, and new ideas, which are crucial for team growth and cohesion.
Among Benni McCarthy’s would-be debutants are Spain-based Aldrine Kibet, Zamalek’s Baron Ochieng’, Gor Mahia leftback Bryton Onyona and Nairobi United’s Kevin Otiende.
“New players bring enthusiasm and drive. It’s an exciting challenge to integrate everyone and see how we perform under pressure,” Ogam said.
Blending experienced stars with newcomers raises the team's overall standard and ensures healthy competition.
Ogam stressed that talent alone is not enough to achieve results.
“Football is about teamwork and unity. Bringing in new players ensures we develop together, learn from each other and build the right chemistry on and off the pitch,” he explained.
Facing Senegal, currently ranked 18th in the world and second in Africa, represents a stern test, but Ogam believes the new additions are key to handling high-pressure situations.
“Fresh players bring new energy and different ways of thinking. This helps the team adapt, respond to challenges and improve collectively,” he noted.
He praised the Football Kenya Federation for arranging matches against strong opponents, adding that such matches are as much about squad development as they are about results.
“Playing new players alongside established ones allows us to understand different styles, make better decisions, and strengthen our team for future qualifiers and tournaments,” he said.
Ogam concluded that the combination of youthful energy and experience will be vital for Kenya’s success.
“These matches are about growth, learning and building a team that can compete at the highest level. New players are an essential part of that journey,” he said.
The star-studded Kenyan contingent jetted out of Nairobi on Wednesday morning, brimming with confidence and purpose as they set course for Turkey’s double-header challenge. Stars will face Equatorial Guinea on Friday and Senegal four days later.
