Benni McCarthy Raises Bar for Harambee Stars Amid Ongoing Austin Odhiambo Speculation

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has outlined the non-negotiable standards for players eyeing a place in the national team, insisting that discipline and consistency must go hand in hand with talent. 

His comments come amid growing speculation about a rift with Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo, whose omission from Kenya’s recent World Cup qualifiers has raised questions.

Odhiambo, the 2023/24 FKF Premier League MVP, had been one of Kenya’s standout performers at CHAN 2024, scoring twice before Harambee Stars were knocked out in the quarter-finals. 

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His surprise exclusion from the squad to face The Gambia and Seychelles fueled speculation of disciplinary issues, but McCarthy has repeatedly avoided being drawn into the matter, terming it “a question for another day.”

Pressed ahead of Kenya’s 5-0 win over Seychelles, McCarthy finally clarified his position, making it clear that hard work and discipline are the minimum requirements for selection.

“It’s not a matter of being ruthless, it’s about consistency and discipline. If players think there’s no discipline in the national team, then they’ll never achieve their goals,” McCarthy explained.

“Some players may have a certain skill set, but if they don’t feel the need to work hard to complement it, then that talent alone won’t be enough. When you come into the national team, if you’re not willing to work hard, I’ll send you back home.”

The coach added that every call-up must be earned and maintained: “There are many players out there who want this opportunity, so those who get it must show consistency and commitment. 

“Talent may get you through the door, but it won’t take you further. Without discipline and hard work, talent goes nowhere.”

McCarthy stressed his long-term vision is to instill professionalism and ambition in the squad.

 “I believe this country can achieve great things, but only if we combine talent with discipline and hard work. If players aren’t willing to commit to that, they won’t find themselves in my team,” he concluded.

Kenya will be facing Burundi and Ivory Coast in October as they try and finish as high up the league as possible.