Benni McCarthy Reveals the 2 Reasons Zak Vyner Was Left Out of Harambee Stars Squad

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has disclosed why Bristol City defender Zak Vyner was not called to the squad as the players prepare to face off against The Gambia and Seychelles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

Harambee Stars will be up against The Gambia on Friday, September 5, before locking horns with Seychelles on Tuesday, September 9, and Benni McCarthy has assembled a squad he believes is capable of rising to the occasion.

However, some notable names, including Zak Vyner, are missing from the squad, but Benni McCarthy has clarified the reasons behind that.

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The former Manchester United attacking coach explained that he had a conversation with Zak Vyner, who pointed out that there was a lot he was handling at the moment and would not be available for the two matches.

With the English Football League (EFL) championship already started, Zak Vyner is committed to making a mark, owing to the fact that his contract is also close to expiring, and he has the desire to extend his stay at the club.

Benni McCarthy added that, as a former player, he understands Zak Vyner’s situation, noting that he is always on the player’s side when it comes to making important decisions for his future.

“I spoke personally to Zac, and obviously, with the championship and Premier League just starting, he just felt that it was a little bit too early because of the accumulation of games already in such a short span of time,” Benni McCarthy told the media.

“He didn’t want to put himself in a situation where he would go back because he is in his last year of contract, and he is also fighting to get a new contract for his club.

“You have to respect that, and I’ve been in that kind of situation before, so, I try to understand from players and the national point of view.”

Benni McCarthy noted that he cannot compel players to come and play in the qualifiers, as it would feel forced, and when they are pressured into something, they rarely give their best effort.

However, he assured fans that Zak Vyner has expressed the desire to play for Harambee Stars, and they should expect to see him soon.

“I’m always on the side of the players because I want happy players to come and play because once they step on that pitch, you will get good results,” Benni McCarthy added.

“We reached an agreement, and he wants to come and play for the national team, and we shall see him soon.”

Gerhard Struber addressed Zak Vyner’s situation after the Robins’ 4-2 win over Hull City at the weekend, underlining the defender’s vital role in the club’s plans.

“He’s hugely important right now, and losing him would be a major blow,” Struber said as quoted by Bristol World.

“I’m hopeful nothing changes in the coming days. I have a strong relationship with Zak, and I trust he recognises what this club means to him.”

With Zak Vyner’s immediate future seemingly settled, attention now shifts to strengthening the attack, the club’s top priority on deadline day.