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The debate on who should take over from Olunga once he hangs up his boots has become a hot topic in Kenyan football
AFC Leopards forward Sydney Lokale has conceded that Michael Olunga remains his role model and will do everything possible to play alongside him and later assume his role in the national team upon his retirement.
Lokale has enjoyed a purple patch since returning to the Kenyan top tier in July, with his goal-scoring form at the Den securing him a return to the national team Harambee Stars after five years in the cold.
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20:15 - 01.10.2024
AFC Leopards striker Sydney Lokale receives Harambee Stars call up
AFC Leopards new signing Sydney Lokale has been handed a call up to the national team ahead of AFCON qualifier fixture against Cameroon.
The debate on who should take over from Olunga once he hangs up his boots has become a hot topic with players such as Benson Omala, John Avire, Jonah Ayunga and Elivis Rupia among those tipped to succeed the Al Duhail striker.
Lokale, who played for Congolese side Saint Eloi Lupopo for two seasons prior to his return to the 13-time FKF Premier League champions added that he admires Olunga's playing style.
"I believe I have what it takes to fill the gap Olunga will leave in the national team. That has always been my plan from the time I started playing in the Kenyan top tier. I like his style of play, hard work, commitment, discipline and how lethal he is in front of the goal. I am confident that I will pick from where he will leave," Lokale told Sportsboom.
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11:42 - 11.10.2024
Michael Olunga calls on Kenyans to shun negative talk as Cameroon showdown looms
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga wants Kenyans to be positive as the team tackles Cameroon in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier.
Stars have always struggled to score goals and win matches in the absence of Olunga who has scored 27 goals for the national team as statistics reveal.
Former KCB man, Lokale, seeks to follow suit by playing next to Olunga in the near future, which he believes, will ready and usher him for the big role.
“Former Harambee Stars coaches handled Olunga’s transition to the senior team very well. They allowed him to partner Dennis Oliech even in big matches, enabling him to blend in seamlessly. He worked hard for the minutes he got when Oliech was active. I would wish to have a similar experience,” he opened up.
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