Harambee Stars Prospect Earns Praise Following Display For Everton in Friendly Draw With Manchester United

Harambee Stars prospect Tyler Onyango earned plaudits from fans and pundits alike after a composed performance during Everton’s preseason 2-2 draw with Manchester United in the United States on Monday morning.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who is eligible to represent Kenya through his father, was introduced in the 61st minute, replacing James Tarkowski. 

Despite a nervous moment leading up to United’s second goal, Onyango recovered well and was widely praised for his resilience and maturity. It was his run down the right flank playing as a makeshift wingback that led directly to their equaliser.

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Onyango, who made his debut for Everton in 2021 under Carlo Ancelotti, has yet to cement his place in the senior side, instead being subjected to a couple of loan spells at clubs like Forest Green Rovers and Peterborough United, who are reportedly interested in signing him again.

However, he has been part of Everton’s pre-season plans in the USA partly due to a lack of depth, and was given a chance to show what he can do.

Onyango’s exclusion from any Harambee Stars squad in recent months left fans baffled. Although the current squad consists of local-based players participating at the ongoing African Nations Championships (CHAN) 2024 on homesoil, popular X (formerly Twitter) user @omac_ asked:

“How did Tyler Onyango miss the Harambee Stars call-up?”

Another Kenyan fan, @EdAlusa, added:

“Moyes is giving Tyler Onyango a chance, that’s massive.”

Everton fans also chimed in. @PeterMcCole noted:

“Well done Tyler Onyango for making up for his earlier mistake for United’s second… central midfield looked better balanced.”

United took an early lead through Bruno Fernandes’ 19th-minute penalty before Iliman Ndiaye equalized for Everton just before halftime. 

Fernandes then turned provider for Mason Mount’s goal in the 69th minute. However, an Ayden Heaven own goal levelled the score in the 75th, directly from Onyango’s cutback.

Onyango’s role in midfield drew particular attention, with some fans even suggesting he could challenge for a regular place in the squad this season, including incoming midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea.

“Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s got some serious work to do if he wants to dislodge Tyler Onyango,” one user posted.

Although Onyango has previously featured for England at youth level, he remains eligible to represent Harambee Stars, and his increasing visibility at the senior level has reignited discussions about a possible international switch.

Born in England to a Kenyan father, Onyango has kept his options open. With performances like this, Football Kenya Federation might be compelled to make a formal approach.