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.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
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.
)
11:02 - 15.05.2025
Kaizer Chiefs In For Benni McCarthy-Coached Harambee Stars Striker
Kaizer Chiefs are firming up their interest in Harambee Stars striker who Benni McCarthy likes.
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.
)
16:05 - 15.05.2025
Benni McCarthy: Harambee Stars Coach Reveals Why Jadon Sancho Refused to Apologize to Erik Ten Hag
Benni McCarthy spills the beans on the events that made Jadon Sancho and Erik Ten Hag not to see eye to eye at Old Trafford.
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.
)
19:25 - 13.05.2025
From Oliech to Wanyama: 5 Kenyan Footballers Who Made Their Mark on History
Here are the five Kenyan footballers who made their mark on history.
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.