A senior Harambee Star striker is jealous of my son, Benson Omala’s father claims
Gor Mahia’s in-form striker, Benson Omala, who has scored six goals in six matches, finds himself at the center of controversy after being snubbed by Harambee Stars for an upcoming friendly match against Russia.
Omala’s father, Peter Oluoch, has now voiced allegations of jealousy, blaming one of the top strikers in the country for his son’s omission from the national team.
Oluoch claims to have heard whispers that the player in question has conspired with individuals in the national team to prevent Omala from featuring for the country.
It is important to note that Nairobi News could not independently verify these allegations.
Coach Engin Firat recently named a 23-man squad for the friendly match against Russia, set to take place in Turkey.
The friendly match was relocated to Turkey due to security concerns arising from the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine.
Also read: Harambee Stars legend Allan Thigo blasts coach Engin Firat for dropping Benson Omala
According to Oluoch, his son’s omission from the national team is fueled by jealousy, as this particular senior player fears that Omala, at 21 years old, could potentially displace him from his role as a key striker if given the opportunity.
“My son is a top striker, but it is jealousy from one of the key players that has led to the coach not calling him up to the national team. This is a troubling issue for me, but I believe the truth will come to light soon,” Oluoch expressed during an interview with Nairobi News.
Oluoch also raised concerns about the national team selection process, suggesting that merit is no longer the sole basis for player selection.
“Selection to the national team is no longer based on merit. I wish I could get Firat and face him so that he can explain his decision to me. It must have been influenced, and the issue of jealousy from that senior player is in it,” he added.
Oluoch firmly believes that external influences and the jealousy of the senior player are key factors in his son’s omission.
Omala’s notable performance in the recent Mashemeji Derby, where he scored a crucial double in Gor Mahia’s 2-0 victory over AFC Leopards, drew attention and praise. His father, who watched the game in Azam, was impressed with the striker’s performance.
This marks the second time that Omala has been left out of Harambee Stars’ squad, as he also missed the recent 2-1 victory over 2022 World Cup host Qatar and a 1-0 loss to South Sudan at MISC Kasarani.
The striker’s absence from the national team continues to be a subject of debate and speculation.
Also read: Benson Omala bags Gor Mahia’s monthly award for best player