The new era of national team football has begun, with Tony Popovic taking the reins and tasked with guiding the team into two crucial qualifiers against China and Japan. The first squad announcement is just around the corner, and it’s an opportunity for Popovic to lay down a marker and show his vision for the team.
In goal, Mathew Ryan is likely to retain his spot, despite his lack of playing time at AS Roma. Paul Izzo and Joe Gauci are next in line, with Mitch Langerak’s international retirement potentially being reconsidered under the new coach.
At left-back, Jordan Bos is expected to start, with Aziz Behich and Jason Davidson providing backup options. The right-back position is up for grabs, with Thomas Deng, Lewis Miller, and Fran Karačić all in contention.
In central defense, Harry Souttar and Thomas Deng are likely starters, with Kye Rowles, Cameron Burgess, and Gianni Stensness providing depth. The injury to Alessandro Circati is a blow, but Nectarios Triantis could be an option in the future.
In midfield, Jackson Irvine is expected to start, with Max Balard, Joshua Nisbet, Aiden O’Neill, and Keanu Baccus all vying for spots. The attacking midfield role is up for grabs, with Riley McGree, Ajdin Hrustić, and Anthony Kalik all in contention.
On the wings, Craig Goodwin is likely to start on the left, with Riley McGree and Sammy Silvera providing backup options. On the right, Nestory Irankunda could make his senior debut, with Silvera and Connor Metcalfe also in the mix.
Up front, Adam Taggart is likely to start, with Mitchell Duke, John Iredale, and Brandon Borrello all vying for spots. The injury to Kusini Yengi is a blow, but Mohamed Touré and Apostolos Stamatelopoulos could be options in the future.
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