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The Nairobian

Captain Wanyama: Oliech still useful to Harambee Stars

Football

By Gilbert Wandera | Oct 10, 2014

Harambee players captain Victor Mugabe and Dennis Odhiambo during their training session at Kasarani Stadium on 09.10.2014 ahead of their friendly match against Morrocco, in Marrakech.PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO

Kenyan captain Victor Wanyama has termed Monday’s international friendly against Morocco as an important fixture for Harambee Stars which will benefit the young players.

“This is a big match for us in which we hope to learn a lot. We have had good training and hope to make an impact in it,” said the Southampton midfielder.

Wanyama said he hopes there will be minimal changes in the team to allow stability but called for the establishment of a youth system that will make it easy for young players to make transition into the senior team.

“I hope we will not have too many changes in future but, more importantly, we need a youth system that makes it possible for the young players to play at this level.”

He also said former captain Dennis Oliech still has something to offer the team, but was quick to add that the final decision (to use him or not) rests with head coach Bobby Williamson.

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Williamson has made it clear he does not need Oliech for Monday’s match in Morocco even though the player has been training with them.

“Oliech has done a lot with this team and he still has something to offer. Having said that however, it is up to the coach to decide whether he needs him.”

Turning to his performance in England, the Kenyan captain revealed his delight at being named the English Premier League (EPL) African Player for September.

“There are many African players in England who are better than me. So winning this award is a big achievement for me,” he said.

His greatest delight remains scoring against Swansea last month and, with that, becoming the first Kenyan player to score in the EPL.

Despite that historic moment, Wanyama did not celebrate.

“Scoring my first goal in EPL was exciting considering that I was the first Kenyan to do so. I really enjoyed and hope it is the beginning of many more to come.

“I did not celebrate that goal because last season I scored a clean goal against Swansea at home but it was disallowed. This time I was not so sure when I scored,” he said.