Origi to miss Mozambique encounter

By James Waindi

Harambee Stars first choice goalkeeper Arnold Origi is out of the do-or-die 2010 World Cup/African Nations Cup fixture against Mozambique on June 20.

Head coach Antoine Hey made the announcement yesterday after the team’s first serious training since returning from Abuja, Nigeria, where they lost 3-0.

"It is unfortunate, we tried talking to Arnold’s club FK Moss to allow him remain with the team, but they insisted they needed him because they have a crucial derby at the weekend.

Flying to Norway is 18 hours so that would be 36 hours return trip. The fact that he has just returned from Abuja and would probably play 90 minutes on Sunday, I don’t think he will be fresh for Mozambique," said Hey.

The German tactician said he would call a third custodian to support David Okello and Willis Ochieng.

"I need the boys to perform at their best level against Mozambique on June 20 and I cannot take any chances," said Hey.

Origi and midfielder John Muiruri returned to Norway yesterday morning where they are expected to represent their club against rivals Sarpsborg 08 FF in a derby on Sunday.

Origi, who returned to action against Nigeria after recovering from a knee injury that saw him sit out for eight months, made crucial saves that put Kenya into the game until the Stars cracked in the final 20 minutes to allow in two goals.

"We have embarked on serious training after the weekend match and our main focus is on players’ concentration because we conceded early goals against Nigeria and Tunisia.

"Yesterday (Tuesday) we just had light training before the players went to sauna and jacuzzi then massaged to relax their muscles. We have embarked on serious business now," said Hey who has vowed to take the team to the continental showcase at all costs.

Meanwhile, Hey has called up four players to strengthen his squad. US-based striker Taiwo Atieno, who failed to make the bench against Tunisia in March, tops the list. Others are Yanga striker Mike Baraza, Nairobi City Stars defender Thomas Wanyama, younger brother to Mc Donald Mariga, Victor Mugabe and Hillary Echesa.