Benni McCarthy Explains Why Real Sociedad Winger Job Ochieng Is Exactly What Harambee Stars Need

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has explained the value Job Ochieng brings to the squad following Kenya’s two World Cup qualifier matches against The Gambia and Seychelles.

Job Ochieng made his Harambee Stars debut in the 3-1 defeat to The Gambia, coming on as a late substitute, before earning his first start against Seychelles, where he featured for most of the match. Harambee Stars claimed a 5-0 victory over Seychelles.

Job Ochieng has already shown his impressive style of play for his side, Real Sociedad, already scoring once in two league appearances this season.

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Benni McCarthy revealed that the speedy winger is unique, noting that in his two matches, he has shown why Harambee Stars need him.

The former Manchester United attacking coach insisted that Job Ochieng might have struggled to fit in on his debut match, but he left a lasting impression as Harambee Stars thrashed Seychelles.

Benni McCarthy noted that, having been with Job Ochieng for a few days, he believes the youngster has the talent, and it is all about tapping into that.

He added that Job Ochieng, just like Boniface Muchiri, has the speed that intimidates opponents, and going forward, he is a valuable player for the team.

"Job is really great, he is slowly but surely pitching up on our radar. He is a Kenyan player competing in the Spanish second division league, La Liga,” Benni McCarthy said.

“We’ve had a look at him and we saw that there is a footballer there, and it’s just how you mould and integrate him.

“I think he started a bit slow, because it’s his first time playing in the national team and understanding the players and learning what we expect from him.”

The Harambee Stars coach explained that he did not want to put too much pressure on Job Ochieng, instead urging him to play his natural game rather than chase perfection.

He praised the youngster’s resilience in quickly recovering from mistakes, describing it as a clear indication of his determination to cement a place in the national team.

“It took some time, but I told him to be free, he has what it takes, he has the speed, a lot of abilities that frighten players on the pitch, he is tricky and quick,” Benni McCarthy added.

“I told him not to be afraid of making mistakes, but I told him to keep wanting the ball. I’m glad that he took the advice from the coaches and annihilated most of his opponents. He is a great asset for us moving forward because Kenya needs wing players.”

Just two matches into his national team career, Job Ochieng has already caught Benni McCarthy’s eye, signalling a promising future ahead.