Harambee Stars duo Sichenje and Okumu missing in action as their European clubs conclude pre-season
By Luke Oluoch, August 2, 2026Kenyan defenders Collins Sichenje and Joseph Okumu were both missing in action as their respective European clubs wrapped up their pre-season campaigns on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
Stade de Reims earned a solid pre-season boost with a 2–1 victory over KV Kortrijk in their final preparation match in Kortrijk, Belgium. However, Okumu, who missed portions of last season through injury, was not named in the matchday squad, casting doubt over his readiness for the upcoming French Ligue 2 season opener.
The Harambee Stars’ vice-skipper returned to training in March 2026, ending a tough spell after being sidelined with a knee problem.
Reims kick off their season opener on Saturday, August 8, 2026, against Clermont Foot 63.
Meanwhile in England, Charlton Athletic got their final preseason game with a 3-0 defeat to Reading FC, a worrying result as the club looks to start with a competitive clash against Cheltenham Town in the first round of the English Football League Cup.
Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones describes the preseason run as a work in progress, admitting they have a lot to attain after the inconsistent streaks.
Jones’s preseason thoughts
“We need more signings and probably two more weeks of work. We need to get to our rhythm and be sharp in what we do in terms of the basics. With that, we will be better,” he said.
Charlton will then open their EFL Championship season a week later on Saturday, August 15, 2026, against Derby County at The Valley at 5:00 pm. Sichenje’s absence bodes ill for his quest to cement a starting berth at the London club, which he joined at the start of the year from SK Vojoidina.
The Harambee Stars ace has had his fair share of injury struggles into the new season.
He was sidelined while recovering from an injury issue that affected his availability towards the end of last season. He was left out of matchday squads across their friendlies in July and August as he continues his recovery programme.