Harambee Stars striker Micah Obiero has spoken up for head coach Benni McCarthy, who is facing criticism over his comments on Kenya's AFCON 2027 chances.

"He's really good, to be fair," the Carlisle United forward said of McCarthy in an interview with his club. Obiero described the former South Africa striker as a good mentor who gives him tips and looks after his players. He also thanked McCarthy for letting him leave the international camp early so he could return to England for Carlisle's match against Aldershot Town.

McCarthy has been under pressure since an interview in which he suggested Kenya's AFCON ambitions could be "maybe 10 years from now." The Harambee Stars opened their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 home draw against Eritrea and face South Africa in a double-header in November.