Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy explains why Mohammed Bajaber is central to his plans in the national team.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has opened up about the potential he spotted in talented prodigy Mohammed Bajaber after just one training session.
The South African sentiments come after the Kenya Police goal machine played a crucial role in Harambee Stars' 3-3 draw against Gambia on Thursday during the 2026 World Cup qualifier match at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ivory Coast.
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The former Manchester United assistant coach under the reign of Dutch tactician Eric Ten Hag, reiterated that Bajaber deserves a chance to showcase his talent and has a bright future with the Stars should he get it right.
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"I met him when we had the minicamp, with the local players, and he impressed me very much. I like players, who are brave and not afraid to make mistakes," McCarthy told Mozzart Sports.
The former Cape Town City coach hailed the dazzling attacking midfielder as a player required to redeem Harambee Stars past glory.
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"You can see what he is trying to do and if he gets it right, then it will be amazing. These are the kind of players you want in your team because you know they will not fail. He will get it right and I love players, who are like that."
Even though Bajaber is a work in progress, McCarthy wondered why the former Nairobi City Stars player was not given opportunity under previous permanent managers. He added that by denying such players playing opportunities, it will be difficult to unearth the talent.
"I am glad I gave him the opportunity. He shows Kenya and the coaches, who were here before, what they missed out and what they could have had."
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McCarthy further assured Kenyans that Bajaber will become better under his watch because of his down-to-earth demeanor. "I am happy for him. Hopefully, he will get better and better. He loves to work, improve and learn. I like that about players because they end up helping themselves become better."
Bajaber scored Stars' second goal against Gambia on Thursday, barely 15 minutes after coming on as a substitute. It remains to be seen whether McCarthy will hand Bajaber a starting role against Gabon on Sunday.