Rising Stars Striker Reveals Why He Dons Michael Olunga Preferred Jersey Number

Rising Stars Striker Reveals Why He Dons Michael Olunga Preferred Jersey Number

Evans Ousuru 08:47 - 17.05.2025

Rising Stars striker opens up about his decision to choose the iconic jersey number won by Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga.

Rising Stars striker Lawrence Okoth has spilled the beans on why he is in love with the iconic jersey number won by Michael Olunga.

Okoth, who coincidentally plays for Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA), donned the number 14 jersey at the U-20 Africa Cup Of Nations where Rising Stars were eliminated from the group stage of the ongoing competition in Egypt.

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The fast-rising forward was one of the team’s standout performers, scoring two goals against Morocco and Tunisia, and selflessly passing up a chance to net a third by handing over a penalty to Kelvin Wangaya in the final group game against Nigeria.

Okoth's choice of jersey number 14 was subject of curiosity from Kenyan fans who are used to Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga donning the jersey.

Olunga, 31, also wears the same jersey number at his Al-Duhail club in the Qatar Stars League.

Giving an insight regarding his jersey choice, the barley forward told Mozzart Sports: “I took the number when we were going for CECAFA. Most of my teammates started calling me Olunga, and that’s when the kit manager, Oliver Onyiso, decided to give me the number.”

Known for his sharp finishing and commanding presence up front, Okoth has also added a relentless work ethic to his game and looks set for the next step of his development.

And despite comparisons with Michael Olunga, Okoth said he won't allow the burden of expectation to weigh on him.

“It feels good to be compared to a national hero. It comes with its own weight, but at the same time, it pushes me to keep working hard. My dream is to eventually take over that position at Harambee Stars when he hangs up his boots,” Okoth, 18, observed.

“To be honest, we haven’t sat down and discussed anything personally. But he inspires all of us whenever he’s around. We all want to be like him and make Kenya proud. I’m also grateful to him for giving us a platform through his academy.”

Despite his inconsistencies in the National Super League, Okoth has managed to score seven goals, with six matches left in the season.