England-born winger Adam Wilson joins injury-hit Harambee Stars as Benni McCarthy’s side departs Tuesday for crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Harambee Stars forward Adam Wilson Ayiro has been handed a late call-up to the national team by head coach Benni McCarthy ahead of Kenya’s final two 2026 FIFA World Cup Group ‘F’ qualifier matches against Burundi and Cote d’Ivoire.
The winger, who plays for Welsh Premier League side The New Saints, joins the camp as Kenya prepares to depart for Bujumbura on Tuesday morning amid growing injury concerns in the squad.
McCarthy confirmed that Wilson’s inclusion came after his flight from Amsterdam was delayed, leading to his late arrival in camp.
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Austin Odhiambo was contriversially left out of the squad in September, but Benni McCarthy recalled him for their upcoming assignments against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
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The South African tactician, speaking at the Police Sacco Stadium in Nairobi, expressed confidence that the winger can make an impact as the team looks to close their campaign on a strong note.
“Football is played on the pitch, not on paper. Cote d'Ivoire should not expect any favours from us. We are going for a win and if Cote d'Ivoire wants to qualify for the World Cup, they must earn it,” McCarthy said during Monday’s training session.
Kenya will face the Swallows of Burundi at the Intwari Stadium in Bujumbura on Thursday before flying to Abidjan to take on the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire next Tuesday.
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McCarthy emphasized that, despite being out of the running for a World Cup berth, the Stars are determined to restore pride and build momentum for future competitions.
“We have also analysed Burundi and we have noted areas we need to improve on in order to overcome them,” he added.
Injury Concerns as Stars Depart for Burundi
The Harambee Stars’ preparations have, however, been disrupted by injuries to key players. Captain Michael Olunga is battling a hamstring issue, while Alpha Chris Onyango and Ronney Onyango have also reported fitness concerns.
McCarthy revealed that the technical team will continue to monitor their progress before Thursday’s encounter.
“Captain Michael Olunga has an issue with his hamstring. Alpha Chris Onyango and Ronney Onyango also reported with injury concerns. We are going to monitor them and by the time we play Burundi we will have a clear picture of fitness levels,” McCarthy said.
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Wilson’s arrival comes at a crucial time as the coach seeks to reinforce his attacking options. The 24-year-old has been in fine form for The New Saints, scoring two goals and providing one assist in six appearances this season.
Born to a Kenyan parent, Wilson began his career at Premier League side Newcastle United, where he scored 11 goals in 61 appearances for the club’s U21 side.
After struggling with thigh and ankle injuries, he moved to The New Saints in 2022 in search of regular game time. His debut season in Wales was outstanding — seven goals in 23 appearances as TNS secured a domestic double, earning him the Supporters’ Player of the Year award.
Wilson’s Journey from Newcastle to Harambee Stars
His performances earned him a move to League Two side Bradford City in 2023, but after limited opportunities, he returned to The New Saints on loan this season — a decision that reignited his career and paved the way for his first Harambee Stars call-up.
“Late call-up, winger Adam Wilson, who plays for Welsh club The New Saints, arrived late after his flight from Amsterdam was delayed,” McCarthy revealed.
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Wilson joins a squad that also welcomes back Gor Mahia captain Austin Odhiambo, who was recalled after being dropped for the September qualifiers.
“I know there are people who are happy that a certain player is back in the team. I am pleased for him. He did what was needed to win back his place. He worked hard,” McCarthy said.
Kenya jets out on Tuesday for Bujumbura and the McCarthy’s injury-hit squad will hope that Wilson’s inclusion injects fresh energy and creativity in attack, as the Stars aim to finish their World Cup qualifying campaign with pride and renewed belief.