COSAFA: Harambee Stars coach lauds special qualities Teddy Akumu brought to side despite being dropped from final squad

COSAFA: Harambee Stars coach lauds special qualities Teddy Akumu brought to side despite being dropped from final squad

Mark Kinyanjui 20:00 - 25.06.2024

Akumu was surprisingly left out of the final Harambee Stars squad for the upcoming COSAFA tournament despite being a key player for the national team.

Harambee Stars assistant coach Ken Odhiambo has heaped praise on the impact Johnstone Omurwa and Teddy Akumu have brought to the team that flew out to South Africa on Tuesday morning to take part in the COSAFA Cup.

Odhiambo had named a provisional squad of players of mostly U-23 players, but also included the likes of Okumu and Omurwa, vastly experienced players to help rub off what they have gained in their careers on the budding youngsters.

Speaking to the media on Monday morning before their last training session held at the Nyayo National Stadium, Odhiambo waxed lyrical on Akumu, lauding his professionalism during the whole camp and using his leadership skills to guide the young players.

“Calling up Teddy was to try and mentor these young boys which he did but we are not traveling with him. 

“His job was to show them the way.He has done well. He is a disciplined player and commits his all to the cause. God bless him.”

Considering players like Amos Wanjala are young and talented but untested at senior level, Omurwa’s job was to try and guide him for the duration of camp.

“Before we named the squad, we sat them down and told them this was our plan, to take the youngsters there. Players like Amos Wanjala need someone to mentor him in order for him not to panic.

“That is what we did with Teddy and Omurwa. I am so grateful for what they have done for these young players. They have done their part, and now is the time for these new kids to show them the way.”

Kenya has been placed in Group A alongside Zambia, Comoros, and Zimbabwe. The team is scheduled to depart for South Africa on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

The 2024 COSAFA Cup presents a significant opportunity for Kenya’s Emerging Stars to demonstrate their potential and lay the groundwork for future success.

With a well-rounded squad and a focus on development, the team aims to make a strong impression in South Africa.

Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching the Emerging Stars as they embark on this exciting journey, hopeful that it will mark the beginning of a new era in Kenyan football.