Why McCarthy is urging players to capitalise on his presence at FKFPL matches
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 08.10.25. | 21:23
He further challenged players to seize every opportunity to impress, noting that standout performances in domestic competitions could open doors to national team selection
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has urged FKF Premier League players to raise their performance levels even as he continues to attend local matches in a bid to scout potential national team call-ups.
Unlike his predecessor Engin Firat, the South African tactician has been a constant presence at stadiums since his appointment in March, closely monitoring league action.
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His regular visits have already seen several players benefit by earning invitations to the national team.
McCarthy has also been attending matches and training sessions involving junior national teams.
The tactician has encouraged players to take advantage of his presence, both those who have previously featured for the Stars and those aspiring to join the squad, to stand a chance of wearing the national team kit.
“It is always important for players to be aware that the national team coach is watching games and monitoring the progress of players who have been part of the setup since I joined. It is also important for players on the fringes who are looking to break into the national team,” McCarthy said.
He further challenged players to seize every opportunity to impress, noting that standout performances in domestic competitions could open doors to national team selection.
“For them, it is a chance to showcase their talent and play the best football they can, because you might do something special that catches my eye or that of my coaches, and you could find yourself in contention for the national team,” he added.
McCarthy also noted that his staff’s regular attendance at league matches helps improve the overall standard of play.
“It is also a good opportunity to improve the league because when the national team coach attends matches, the standards tend to rise a little bit,” he said.
The South African tactician emphasized that the national team management values both local and foreign-based players equally.
“So we try to attend as many games as we can. Sometimes, I cannot personally be there, but the rest of my technical team is always present. It is important for local players to feel that we do not exclude them—our focus is not only on overseas players. Everybody is equally important,” McCarthy concluded.
The Harambee Stars are currently in Burundi ahead of their World Cup qualifier against the hosts on Thursday, before traveling to Ivory Coast for Tuesday’s clash with the Elephants.
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