Rising Stars striker Lawrence Okoth has opened up about the inspiration behind his choice to wear the number 14 jersey an iconic number famously worn by Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga.
Okoth, who currently plays for the Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA), wore the number 14 jersey during the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. Although the Rising Stars were eliminated at the group stage of the ongoing tournament in Egypt, Okoth stood out with his impressive performances, scoring two goals against Morocco and Tunisia. His selflessness was also on display when he passed up a chance to score a hat-trick by allowing teammate Kelvin Wangaya to take a penalty in the final group match against Nigeria.
His decision to don the number 14 jersey drew significant attention, particularly from Kenyan football fans who strongly associate the number with Olunga. The Harambee Stars forward, who also wears number 14 at his Qatari club Al-Duhail, has become synonymous with the jersey due to his exploits for both club and country.
Okoth shed light on the story behind his jersey choice, revealing that it wasn’t initially his idea. “I took the number when we were going for CECAFA. Most of my teammates started calling me Olunga, and that’s when the kit manager, Oliver Onyiso, decided to give me the number,” said the young striker.
Known for his clinical finishing, physical strength, and keen eye for goal, Okoth has steadily built a reputation as one of the most promising young forwards in Kenyan football. Beyond his technical attributes, he has developed a relentless work ethic and is widely seen as one of the rising stars capable of leading Kenya’s attack in the future.
At just 18 years old, Okoth finds himself constantly compared to Olunga a comparison that he welcomes with pride, albeit with an understanding of the pressure that comes with it. “It feels good to be compared to a national hero. It comes with its own weight, but at the same time, it pushes me to keep working hard. My dream is to eventually take over that position at Harambee Stars when he hangs up his boots,” he said.
Despite his admiration for Olunga, Okoth admits the two haven’t had a one-on-one conversation. However, he acknowledges the role the experienced striker has played in shaping his journey and that of other young players. “To be honest, we haven’t sat down and discussed anything personally. But he inspires all of us whenever he’s around. We all want to be like him and make Kenya proud. I’m also grateful to him for giving us a platform through his academy.”
Even though his form has been inconsistent in the National Super League, Okoth has already notched seven goals with six games left in the season. His performances at club and international youth level suggest he is steadily maturing and poised for greater opportunities.
With growing confidence, a grounded mindset, and a deep appreciation of his roots, Okoth is not only carrying the number 14 jersey with pride but also carrying the hopes of many who see him as the heir to Olunga’s throne. As he continues to develop, fans will be watching closely to see if he can one day lead the line for the senior Harambee Stars just like the man whose footsteps he’s following.
