Could this be the end of Victor Wanyama’s stint with Harambee Stars?

The last time Wanyama featured for Kenya was in the 202 AFCON qualifiers played in November last year against Comoros which Harambee Stars lost 2-1.

In his absence Mulee handed the armband to the Al Duhail SC striker Michael Olunga as he continued with his rebuilding process.

While Mulee has retained the attacking tri of Eric Kapaito (Kariobangi Sharks), Elvis Rupia (AFC Leopards) and Morocco-based Masud Juma, it is the omission of players like Simba SC defender Joash Onyango, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Brian Mandela and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Anthony Akumu that has generated debate on social media. 

Kenyans further questioned the inclusion of two goalkeepers from Kariobangi Sharks Brian Bwire and Brandon Obiero at the expense of the in-form Gor Mahia custodian Gad Mathews.

However, with over 60 caps to his name for the national team, Wanyama’s fate with Stars is hanging in the balance with Mulee saying he trust in the players he named.

“This is a strong group of players, we have a superb blend of experience, youth, ability, and personalities. This is a group of players who have what it takes to start well against Uganda and go all the way,” Mulee said of his squad.

In a past interview with Standard Sports about Wanyama’s exclusion, Mulee said: “It is not about replacing someone but their ability to play at the top level. We are slowly but surely trying to build a team for the future.”

Serbia-based Richard Odada, FC Talanta’s Enock Momanyi and Bandari’s Siraj Mohammed (Bandari) are the players who have earned their maiden call up to the national team.