Benni McCarthy on Why He Drafted Brian Michira to Replace Mohammed Bajaber Ahead of CHAN 2024

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has opened up on his decision to call up Brian Michira, Chris Erambo and Edward Omondi ‘Ondimo’ to the national team squad for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), following the injury withdrawal of key winger Mohammed Bajaber.

Omondi, who has enjoyed a good season at Sofapaka, had initially been called up to the squad, but was on the standby list when Benni McCarthy reduced the number of players to 25 for the tournament.

However, Bajaber, who reported to camp already injured, was deemed not fit enough to participate in the group stages, and incidentally earned a move to Simba. The side also had to suffer the ignominity of seeing key midfielder Brian Musa suffer an untimely hamstring injury, which forced his hand.

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Marvine Nabwire also suffered a knock during the match, but Pulse Sports understands he should be fit enough in time for the opening game when Stars will take on DR Congo in Group A at Kasarani Stadium.

As for Michira, there was public outcry when he never made the cut at all after a stellar individual season for Shabana which saw him score 12 league goals and register numerous assists

In a candid media briefing on Wednesday, McCarthy emphasised that every player in the CHAN squad had earned their spot based on merit, and that the final selections were not only technical but also emotional, given the quality of players in camp.

“We had 28 players in the provisional squad, and we had to bring it down to 25. It’s always difficult to cut players, especially those who’ve given their all during training,” McCarthy said. 

“Omondi was one of those who missed out initially. If Bajaber had been fit, there would have been no space. But that’s how football is—things change quickly.”

The turning point came when Bajaber, one of the team’s most promising young midfielders, was ruled out due to injury. The development forced McCarthy and his technical team to re-evaluate their options, eventually leading to the recall of both Michira and Omondi.

“Football can be very unforgiving,” McCarthy noted. “One day you’re on top of the mountain, and the next, you’re flat on your back. For Bajaber, it’s unfortunate, but for Michira and Omondi, it’s a second chance they must embrace fully.”

McCarthy commended the player’s attitude and resilience, particularly in how he handled the disappointment of being left out initially.

“He took the news well when we dropped him. That shows maturity,” McCarthy said. “I told him it wasn’t the end—anything can happen in football. And sure enough, the door opened again. He’s come back ready, focused, and motivated.”

McCarthy praised Michira’s form over the past season, saying he had been on the radar from the beginning but narrowly missed out on the final cut due to the depth of competition in midfield.

“Michira had a solid season. He was always in contention,” said McCarthy. “At the time of selection, I felt the other players had a slight edge. But now that he’s back, he’s brought renewed energy and hunger to prove himself. It’s his moment to shine.”

McCarthy concluded by saying that both players have the chance not only to make an impact at CHAN 2024, but to show the coaching staff and fans that they belong at the highest level.

“I’m happy for the boys. These are the moments that define a player’s career. The opportunity is there—now it’s up to them to take it and make us see what we might have overlooked.”

With CHAN 2024 fast approaching, all eyes will now be on Michira and Omondi to see if they can seize the moment and help propel Harambee Stars to success on the continental stage.