Barnsleys Oduor positive about playing for Kenya Kimanzi

Barnsleys Oduor positive about playing for Kenya  Kimanzi

Harambee Stars head coach Francis Kimanzi says he is closely monitoring the progress of Kenyan born left-back Clarke Oduor who plays for Championship side Barnsley in England.

Oduor came on as a substitute in his side’s 6-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup and Kimanzi confirmed that the federation is in touch with his agent and family as they try to convince him to play for the Stars.

“We have spoken to his manager and the parents about the possibility of him playing for our national team and there are all positive signs that they are willing to let him do so. The best of all is that the player himself also agreed that he can play for the national team,” said Kimanzi.

Oduor joined Barnsley mid last year after spending over a decade at Leeds United, and on July 22nd the left-back   scored a late winner for the Championship side as they edged Brentford 2-1, the goal ensured his side  survived relegation.

A screen grab shows Kenyan-born Oduor(on the ball) in action against Chelsea Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup

“The player has great quality and we are trying to see where he can fit in our national team, the most important thing is to see how quick he can settle in with the rest of the team; that’s why we will keep monitoring him,” added Kimanzi.

Stars are scheduled to play the Chipolopolo next month ahead of their African Cup of Nations qualifier double header (home and away) against Comoros in November .

Meanwhile lead striker Michael  Olunga is uncertain over his availability for the clash because of club commitments and the Covid- 19 restrictions.

Kimanzi however says he is yet to receive any communications from the federation on the unavailability of Olunga.

“I won’t comment on his interview with the media; the only time I can speak about it is when I receive official communication from the federation and so far I haven’t,” Kimanzi told Citizen Digital.

Tags:

chelsea Francis Kimanzi Barnsley Harambee Stars Clarke Oduor Carabao Cup

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