Michael Olunga explains what new call-up Tobias Knost brings to Harambee Stars

Tobias Knost in training with Harambee Stars. Photo: FKF media

Michael Olunga explains what new call-up Tobias Knost brings to Harambee Stars

Joel Omotto 18:28 - 01.06.2024

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is excited by the qualities of new call-up Tobias Knost whom he feels will offer a different dynamic to the squad in upcoming matches.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is thrilled by new call-up Tobias Knost’s qualities which he feels will be crucial to the team as they gear up for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Knost received his maiden call-up from Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat, for the matches against Burundi and Ivory Coast in Malawi this month, and he is set to add depth and quality in defence.

The German-born Kenyan defender is a right-back by trade but can also play at center-back and with the likes of Joseph Okumu and Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma struggling with fitness issues, Olunga feels his skillsets will be a valuable addition to the squad.

“Congratulations to him for receiving this call-up we hope he can earn his debut for the national team. It will be an honour for him to represent our country so we welcome him to the team. He is a good player with the ball, very athletic, versatile, he can play different positions,” said Olunga.

“This is what we want from these kinds of players because we want players who can be used in whatever positions the coach wants and I think he is going to be a valuable addition now that we have lots of problems in defence with a lot of injuries and everybody is hoping to see the best he can offer the country.”

Knost was among the players who made the travelling squad to Malawi and will likely offer competition and options at right-back where Daniel Anyembe has been the preferred starter by Firat.

The former Germany U18 star, who plays for German third-tier side SC Verl, is at his best bombing down the right wing to offer an attacking threat besides his defensive duties.

Born in Berlin, Knost began his football journey with Tennis Borussia Berlin before joining Hamburger SV in 2014. His potential was quickly recognised, and in November 2017, he signed a professional contract with the club.

He made his first-team debut for Hamburger SV on 18 August 2018, in a thrilling 5-3 DFB-Pokal victory over TuS Erndtebruck.

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