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Former captain of the Harambee Stars of Kenya, Victor Wanyama, has announced his retirement from international football after a decade of dedicated services.
The 30 year old rubust midfielder wearing the white and red jersey for fourteen years calls it a quit in the national team to focus on club football at Major League Soccer side CF Montreal.
In a statement on his social media, the former Celtic, Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur player thanked fans for their support over the years, saying ‘it was a dream come true to represent his national team when growing up.
“From making my debut against Nigeria to captaining the team at the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt – these past 14 years have gone beyond what I ever thought possible
“The time has come to hand over the team to the next generation so that they too can make their mark and help our country reach even greater heights
“With a great deal of pride, I can say that I have been fortunate to live my dream!! We have shared great moments together and I am proud to have been captain and leader
“But all good things must come to an end eventually, and after long consideration, I have made the really difficult decision to retire from international football
“I hope to return one day to help the federation off the field but until then, I will still be the Harambee Stars’ biggest supporter and I will be cheering you guys on from the sidelines.” Victor Wanyama’s farewell message stressed.
Wanyama last played for Kenya in November 2020.
He made his international debut in May 2007 against Nigeria at the age of 15, and went on to score 7 goals in 64 outings for his country.
Kenya failed to qualify for the upcoming Nations Cup in Cameroon, but are currently second in Group E, with two points behind leaders Mali, who have four points in the ongoing Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
