Published on: February 6, 2026
London, England — Harambee Stars defender Collins Sichenje could make his English Championship debut on Friday night as Charlton Athletic host Queens Park Rangers in a London derby at The Valley.
The 11:00 pm (EAT) kick-off fixture comes just days after the Kenyan international completed a three-year move to Charlton, putting him in contention for his first competitive appearance in England’s second tier.
Since joining the Addicks, Sichenje has trained with the first team on three occasions and has been included in the matchday considerations by head coach Nathan Jones, who confirmed the defender is available for selection.
Coach Backs Sichenje’s Readiness
Speaking to the club’s official channels on Thursday, February 5, Jones praised the defender’s physical attributes and preparation.
“He is up to speed. He had a pre-season with his previous team and is a super athlete, as you would expect from his Kenyan heritage,” Jones said.
The Charlton boss added that while adaptation to Championship football will take time, the club is encouraged by what it has seen so far.
“He is aggressive, front-footed and technically very good. Those are strong attributes and we are pleased with him,” he noted.
Busy February Schedule Ahead
Should the QPR fixture come too soon for Sichenje, Charlton have a packed February calendar that could offer further opportunities. The club faces Stoke City at home on February 11, followed by another home tie against Portsmouth a week later.
Away trips to Southampton on February 21 and West Bromwich Albion on February 24 will follow before Charlton close the month with a home clash against Wrexham.
The Wrexham fixture could see Sichenje face fellow Harambee Stars defender Zak Vyner, who recently joined the promotion-chasing side.
