Ayunga can't wait to make Harambee Stars debut

Harambee Stars midfielder Jonah Ayunga (left) and David Sakwa during training session at Utalii Grounds. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Jonah Ayunga is itching for his debut for Kenya as Harambee Stars prepare to travel to Malawi for the four-nation tournament on March 23-26.

For the St. Mirren FC man, this will mean a lot for his dad who has sacrificed a lot to see him where he is.

The winger says he can’t wait to make an impressive debut for Harambee Stars and cement his place in the team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers in June.

“I’m glad to be here finally. I came in 2017 and 2018 but because I didn’t have a passport, I didn’t play but now this is a rare opportunity that I need to impress the coach (Engin Firat) and get some minutes in the tournament,” Ayunga said.

Ayunga was pleased with the reception he received in the camp.

“The atmosphere is amazing, everyone is happy to be here, training well and pushing hard,” said Ayunga.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga said it was good to have new players like Ayunga and teenager David Sakwa in the squad.

“We have got new good players coming up daily. We are out there to bring the best and there are still more upcoming talents to represent the country. The national team door is open for everyone because all of us want Kenya to win matches. Whoever gets the nod to play it’s the coach’s final decision,” said Olunga.

Olunga feels the tournament will offer the team a perfect chance to prepare for the AFCON qualifiers.