Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo Replaces Victor Wanyama in Harambee Stars Squad for Chad Friendlies

Gor Mahia midfield ace Austine Odhiambo has earned a national team call-up to join the Harambee Stars camp ahead of June friendlies.

Odhiambo has been selected to replace veteran midfielder Victor Wanyama in Benni McCarthy's Harambee Stars squad ahead of the upcoming international friendlies against Chad.

Wanyama, who was initially included in the provisional squad for the matches, will miss out due to personal commitments in the United Kingdom.

The former Harambee Stars captain made a shock return to the national team set up after a four year absence following his international retirement in 2021.

The former Tottenham and Montreal Impact star’s absence has opened the door for Odhiambo, who has been a standout performer for Gor Mahia this season.

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Odhiambo’s inclusion is a significant opportunity for the midfielder to make his mark under Harambee Stars coach McCarthy.

"Victor Wanyama, initially named in the provisional squad for the upcoming friendlies Chad, has been excused due to personal commitments in the UK. In his place, Gor Mahia’s midfielder Austin Odhiambo gets the call-up," read the communication from the official Harambee Stars X page.

With the friendlies against Chad serving as preparation for upcoming competitive fixtures, the technical bench is expected to experiment with fresh talent, and Odhiambo's creativity and composure could be vital in midfield.

The call-up is also a testament to Gor Mahia’s continued contribution to the national team, as they provide yet another player to the Harambee Stars fold.

These matches mark Benni McCarthy’s second assignment since taking over the Harambee Stars.

His selection choices, including bringing in Odhiambo, suggest a willingness to inject new energy.

With a blend of experience and youth, McCarthy is looking to build a competitive squad capable of reclaiming Kenya’s place in continental football ahead of the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in August.