September 1, 2016 By Sahr Morris Jr.
New England Revolution striker Kei Kamara has received a late call-up to the Sierra Leone national team ahead of Saturday’s decisive Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ivory Coast.
The former Columbus Crew forward was earlier left out of the squad following his previous decision to resign from international football on the pretext that the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) “lacks respect for players”.
However, the outspoken striker who turns 32 today (September 1), admitted that a lot of factors, including Sierra Leone legend Mohamed Kallon, cause him to reverse his decision and return to international football.
Kamara’s inclusion to the squad ended the former Norwich and Middlesbroug striker’s 10-months self-imposed international break. His addition is also considered to be a boost for Sierra Leone who need only a win to leapfrog their Ivorian opponents and qualifying to the 2017 as Group I winners.
SLFA’s media officer, Abu Bakarr Kamara, also confirmed that the striker is back and that he is expected to join the rest of the squad in Abidjan.
He said: “Kei Kamara is now part of Coach Sellas Tetteh’s plan for Saturday’s game and he’s expected in Ivory Coast on Thursday.”
Kamara’s inclusion has given Ghanaian coach more options upfront with the likes of Sheka Fofonah and China-based forward Mohamed Bangura.
However, the Leone Stars gaffer will be without defender Gibrill ‘Barrel’ Sankoh, who failed to honour the country’s invitation.