The 25-year-old forward has quickly established himself in Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars squad after making his Kenya debut earlier this year.
Speaking to Carlisle United media, Obiero reflected on his journey from club football in England to representing his country and working under one of the most decorated African strikers of his generation.
‘Every time I get it, it’s a bit of a shock’
Obiero said receiving a Kenya call-up continues to surprise him despite now becoming a regular member of the squad.
“Every time I get it, it's a bit of a shock,” Obiero said.
“If you asked me a couple of years ago if I was going to play for Kenya, I wouldn't have believed you.”
The striker added that working under McCarthy makes the experience even more significant because of the former South Africa international’s achievements as a player.
“Especially playing for Benni McCarthy, looking at the player that he was as well, it's always an honour.”
McCarthy won the UEFA Champions League with Porto in 2004 and enjoyed a successful Premier League career with Blackburn Rovers, making his experience particularly valuable to a young forward looking to develop his game.
Obiero cherishes playing in front of Kenyan fans
The Carlisle forward also spoke about the emotional significance of representing the Harambee Stars in front of home supporters.
“I really enjoyed the experience playing in front of thousands of my people and carrying the badge on my chest. It was good.”
Obiero was included in McCarthy’s 24-man squad for Kenya’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Eritrea and Guinea in September and October.
He started against Guinea in Conakry on 1 October, before making the long journey back to England.
Strong start at Carlisle United
Despite the demanding international schedule, Obiero quickly returned to club action and made an impact for Carlisle.
He scored in stoppage time as Carlisle United defeated Aldershot Town 3-1 in the National League on 4 October, just days after featuring for Kenya against Guinea.
Carlisle head coach Rob Elliot praised the forward's commitment, revealing that Obiero had travelled for around 35 hours in the two days surrounding the international fixture before returning to play for his club.
The goal was Obiero’s second for Carlisle in four matches since joining the club, underlining his growing importance to the English side.
A new chapter with the Harambee Stars
Obiero’s emergence gives McCarthy another overseas-based attacking option alongside established striker Michael Olunga.
CAF included the Carlisle forward among the eight attackers selected for Kenya’s September-October AFCON qualifying fixtures, highlighting his growing status within McCarthy’s plans.
For Obiero, however, the significance goes beyond selection and statistics. After years of pursuing his international opportunity, the Carlisle striker is now embracing the chance to represent Kenya and learn from a coach whose career he once could only admire from afar.