McCarthy insists William Wilson’s value goes beyond statistics for Kenya

Kenya national head coach Benni McCarthy has supported his decision to use midfielder William Lenkupae Wilson regularly for Harambee Stars matches.

The 23-year-old, who plays for Finnish club Vaasan Palloseura, started the last two matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles. Kenya lost the first game 3-1 before recovering to beat Seychelles 5-0.

Against Seychelles, Wilson played a critical role, setting up two goals, as Kenya rounded off their home qualifiers on a high. His first game for Kenya was in the 3-3 draw against Gambia, and he was among the goals.

“Anybody, who has watched us train knows he (William Wilson) is one of the most relentless players you’ll find,” McCarthy said as quoted by Pulse Sports. “It’s not just about talent—talent alone ends at the door.

“You need mentality, the willingness to work hard and improve. Will is the prime definition of that. He’ll play any position, give everything, and inspire others to do the same.”

Wilson made his professional debut in a FFA Cup playoff match against Perth Glory in 2021, before he made first league appearance for Melbourne Victory against Western Sydney Wanderers in 2022.

Wilson made his starting debut for the club in a 2-1 loss to Central Coast Mariners in the 2022 New Year’s Eve fixture. On 26 August 2023 he was released by Melbourne Victory and signed for Central Coast Mariners.

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