Aboud urges Kenyans to back McCarthy in pursuit for CHAN glory

Harambee Stars skipper Aboud Omar has called for respect for the head coach Benni McCarthy's decisions regarding the recent names in the CHAN squad.

This comes following an online debate by a section of fans, questioning his selection for the tournament set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in August.

Among those overlooked and drawing debates are Shabana FC’s Brian Michira, Kenya Police’s Marvin Nabwire and Brian Okoth. Others were AFC Leopards' shot-stopper Levis Opiyo and Tusker FC’s standout Chris Erambo.

“This is a foreign tactician whose selection was purely on his preference and not influence by anyone. We have to accept his decisions and support him for us to star in make impact in the CHAN tournament.  The squad he named includes experienced and upcoming players and to me I feel it was perfect selection,” Aboud, a Police FC player noted.

“All we need now is fans support as the tournament is being held at home. I remember fans made us qualify for the AFCON in 2018 when we beat Ethiopia at the Kasarani Stadium and I don’t remember seeing such a huge crowd again,” reminisced Aboud.

McCarthy on Thursday come out swinging at critics of his provisional squad for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), insisting his selections are grounded in his vast experience and a keen eye for talent.

‎McCarthy made it clear that he won’t be dictated to by public sentiment.

‎"You can't please everybody, and I am not here to please people. I am here to bring success to the country," declared McCarthy.

In his part Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed said they gave the coach freedom to choose the squad.

“We always give the head coach freedom to choose players he wants and as a Federation we don’t interfere at all. We will give him the support he deserves to make us proud in Chan.”