Kenya: Were in U-23 Squad to Replace Mutiso

Charles Nyende

22 June 2011

Nairobi — Internationally capped Paul Were has been called up to the Kenya under-23 team ahead of their crunch All Africa Games qualifier against Uganda on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Were, 20, was called to replace Innocent Mutiso who has been dropped over his age.

Mutiso was named in the initial 15-man squad, but his club Mathare United informed Football Kenya Limited (FKL) that the player was over 23 years.

“Kindly note as well that we are releasing Innocent Mutiso on the basis that he is one of the three overage players allowed under the tournament rules,” Mathare United chief executive officer Sam Mwai told FKL.

“We have decided not to use the player because of his age. But we are surprised his club is raising the issue now yet the same player featured for Kenya Under-20 last year with the knowledge of the club,” Kenya Under-20 coach Leonard Saleh said on Wednesday.

Mutiso was captain of the Kenya Under-20 team in the Africa junior qualifiers and the Cecafa Youth Championship in Eritrea.

His replacement, Were, was a surprise omission from the initial squad.

The talented Tusker forward sensationally stormed into the Kenyan Premier League with his explosive pace and spectacular goals.

He found the net seven times last season. Were has, however, been criticised for his destructive attitude that has seen him struggle with indiscipline problems.

“I have never coached the boy (Were) but I have heard stories about his attitude. I have, however, talked to his club management and I will also be talking to him. He is a good talent who needs guidance,” Saleh said.

Saleh has also called up Sony Sugar defender Silas Shitote to bolster the side. KCB defender Eugen Asike has been picked to captain the team.

“For a captain, it is important for me to get a person with leadership qualities and who can motivate other players and manage them. You can see that in Asike,” Saleh said.

Saleh will have a full squad on Thursday when players involved in KPL matches yesterday return to camp. The Uganda under-23 team is expected in the country on Thursday.

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