The forward, who has captained the Cranes in recent years, confirmed his decision through a statement on social media, saying he wants to pave the way for young talent.

We are not going to Morocco merely to participate. We are going there to compete

Among the fresh inclusions is KCCA’s on-form goalkeeper Mutwalib Mugoloofa, whose six clean sheets in seven games has helped the Kasasiro to the top of the StarTimes Uganda Premier League.

We might be on the brink of qualification, but we must face the truth our team is not performing up to par

With 10 points from four games, Uganda are guaranteed to qualify should South Africa, on seven points, beat Congo in Tuesday's late game.

Fan Interrupts Tense match to propose to girlfriend on the middle of the field