Portugal based striker Francis Ouma joined the rest of the Harambee Stars squad Friday in readiness for the 33rd edition of CECAFA senior challenge cup which kicks off this weekend In Nairobi and Mumias.

Ouma who plays for Portugal's 2nd division outfit Grupo Desportivo Tourizense joined the rest of the Stars squad during the Friday morning training session keen on earning a place in the already crowded striking field.

Having emerged as a runner up top scorer during the last CECAFA edition in Kampala, Uganda .

Ouma who was left out of the entire 2nd round phase of the world Cup qualification campaign by Antoine Hey holds no grudge against the decision by the renegade German coach but is now firmly  focused on the upcoming task.

Stars who open their campaign against Zambia this Saturday at the Nyayo National Stadium at 4pm will definitely feel the weight of playing at home and the overriding expectation of the home crowd.

Whether they will bank on this to claim the regional trophy that has eluded them for the last 6 years will certainly be decided when the 12 nation tourney kicks off.

Harambee Stars is pooled in group A alongside Zambia, perennial rivals Ethiopia and Djibouti.