Germany-based Lorenzen in Uganda squad for Botswana clash

Uganda coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic named Germany-based uncapped midfielder Melvyn Lorenzen in the Cranes’ 21-man squad for next month’s crucial AFCON 2017 Group D qualifier against Botswana away in Gaborone.

Lorenzen, a name not familiar to many Ugandan football followers was the surprise inclusion in the Serbian’s squad for the make or break clash with Botswana. The 21-year-old who plays for German side Werder Bremen was born in the United Kingdom to a Ugandan father (Drake Mugisha) and a German mother.

Uncapped at any level, the midfielder’s performance in the just ended German Bundesliga, where he made over eight appearances as Werder Bremen beat the drop, has impressed Micho and his technical team for a look-in.

Uganda have seven points, same as Burkina Faso, who leads the pack via head-to-head advantage, and the Cranes must avoid a setback against the Zebras to realize their long cherished dream of an appearance at the AFCON finals for the first time since 1978.

Rwanda-based Davis Kasirye, who has netted 12-goals for Rayon Sports, is the other surprise inclusion.

“We have followed up every player we have summoned for a while and we are happy most of these players have been active in their clubs and we want to capitalize on these against our opponents,” said Micho.

Home-based players called up include Joseph Ochaya (KCCA), Erisa Ssekisambu (Vipers) and striker Edrisa Lubega of second-tier Proline FC.

The Cranes are expected to resume camping on Monday, 23 May 2016 in Kampala to commence preparations for the Gaborone test.

Ahead of the 4 June 2016 clash with Botswana, the Cranes will test their readiness with a friendly against Zimbabwe on 31 May 2016 in Harare.

Full Squad

Dennis Onyanyo (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Robert Ondongkara (St George, Ethiopia), Salim Jamal Magola (El Merreikh, Sudan)

Defenders:

Denis Iguma (Al Ahed, Lebanon), Isaac Isinde (St George, Ethiopia), Murushid Jjuuko (Simba, Tanzania), Hassan Wasswa Mawanda (Al Shorta, Iraq), Joseph Ochaya (KCCA)

Midfielders:

Mike Azira (Colorado Rapids, USA), Moses Oloya (Becamex Binh Duong, Vietnam), Khalid Aucho (Gor Mahia, Kenya), Tonny Mawejje (Thottur, Iceland), William Kizito Luwagga (Feirense, Portugal), Godfrey Walusimbi (Gor Mahia, Kenya)

Forwards: