By Gilbert Wandera and Rodgers Eshitemi
Gor Mahia forward Paul Kiongera has earned a return to the national team Harambee Stars ahead of the June 14 World Cup qualifier against Malawi away.
Kiongera who was kept out of Wednesday’s fixture against Nigeria with injury is coming back to reinforce the striking force which was a let down in the 1-0 loss to Nigeria.
“He’s a valuable player and we will assess him before making the final decision on Monday. If he passes the fitness test he will add value to the team,’’ said Nandwa.
Harambee Stars assistant coach James Nandwa confirmed the forward has already joined camp.
Also called up is AFC Leopards winger Paul Were. Nandwa said they are also monitoring Gor forward Rama Salim for a possible return to the team.
“We have initiated talks with Salim with the intention of having him back in the team,” said Nandwa.
Stars leave for Blantyre on Monday, two days before their match against Malawi. The team has also been boosted by the return from suspension of striker Dennis Oliech. Oliech was missed by the team when they played against Nigeria and his return will be a great boost to a side that is struggling to score goals.
Meanwhile, Kenya will do without Belgium-based midfielder Johanna Omollo due to suspension.
The Lommel midfielder picked up his second consecutive yellow-card during last Wednesday’s loss to Super Eagles at Kasarani.
“Omollo is suspended for the match. It’s a big blow, but we’ve enough depth in the squad,’’ said Nandwa.
Apart from Omollo, Stars will also be without Norway-based shot-stopper Arnold Origi due to a finger injury.
Elsewhere, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has said they will give coach Adel Amrouche all the support he needs to make the team qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
The federation’s chairman Sam Nyamweya said the Belgian has brought great improvement to the team.
“We have seen massive improvement in the technical aspects of the team’s play over the last six months,” he said.
