Mariga to sit out Libya clash
Kenyan international midfielder MacDonald Mariga has been ruled out of next month’s international match against the Mediterranean Knights of Libya with a knee injury.
The Inter Milan midfielder becomes the second foreign-based player to withdraw from the squad, after Brian Mandela, who plays for South African Division One side Cape Town Santos FC, pulled out of the team due to injury.
Harambee Stars Coach James Nandwa has been forced to recall Charles Okwemba [AFC Leopards] and Mulinge Ndetto [Ulinzi Stars] to replace the injured duo.
“We will have to do without Mariga. We have been informed that he sustained an injury during training. We were expecting him to make his long-awaited international return, but unfortunately he is out,” said Nandwa.
“I have recalled Okwemba and Ndetto-I am sure they will deliver.”
Meanwhile, the Football Kenya Federation [FKF] has confirmed the availability of the other seven foreign-based players.
According to the country’s football governing body, Azam duo Jockins Atudo and Humphrey Mieno together with South Africa-based striker David Gateri are expected to jet-in on Thursday.
The European based legion led by Aj Ajaccio’s hit-man Dennis Oliech, Celtic’s Mugubi Victor, Lillestrom’s Arnold Origi and Ayub Timbe of Genk will join the rest of the squad in Tunisia.
