Gor Mahia attacking midfielder Alpha Onyango has expressed his delight following his return to the Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars.

Speaking on Wednesday, June 6, 2025, Onyango, who made the cut in coach Benni McCarthy’s squad that set off for Morocco on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, vowed to honour his call-up by making his contribution to the team.

“I am glad to be part of the national team after some times out. It has been almost a year since I was last called up,” Onyango said.

He also spoke on the mood in the camp and the training sessions as Kenya prepares to face Chad in back-to-back friendlies.

Stars will face the central African nation on Saturday, June 7, 2025, before regrouping again for the final clash on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The young attacker will be keen to make his case and impress coach McCarthy ahead of the upcoming CHAN games.

The competition, which features only home-based players, is scheduled to kick off in August, with the Gor ace among those hoping to start off their cases for the final team after earning nods in the squad.

The midfielder has enjoyed fine form in the season, with his feat in the FKF Shield Cup a testament to his budding streak. In the competition, Onyango scored in three consecutive rounds, with his goal in the semifinal win over Murang’a Seal, seeing Gor clinch the final spot.

“We have had good training sessions, and we hope for a better experience going forward,” he stated. “I’m hoping to give my best as a team. We are looking forward to the tournament ahead. We are prepared for the challenge and hope to do well in the two games,” he added.

The foregoing comes after Kenya’s preparations were hampered by additional cases of injuries.

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on Tuesday confirmed the withdrawal of Mohammed Bajaber due to injury.

 “Kenya Police FC midfielder Mohammed Bajaber has been ruled out of Harambee Stars’ upcoming friendlies against Chad after sustaining a right thigh injury during training on Tuesday.

“No replacement has been named, with 23 players set to travel tonight for the matches scheduled for 7th and 10th June in Marrakech. We wish Bajaber a quick and full recovery,” FKF confirmed.

The Kenya Police attacker’s withdrawal comes after former Stars skipper Victor Wanyama also withdrew from the team, citing personal reasons