It is well known that Australia’s success (or lack thereof) on the international football stage has been a dent in an otherwise-fruitful resume. Still considered young in a nation dominated by other footy codes, it is undisputed that Australia has surely fulfilled their short-term goals and potential.
With a highest ranking of 12, wins against giants Holland and victory over a Serbian team – containing Nemanja Vidic – at the World Cup have surely turned heads towards the continent.
With talents such as Brett Holman, Tim Cahill and Mark Schwarzer in the frame, it is a distinct possibility that Australia can achieve new personal highs.
But an axiom circulating in the football community has suggested that we need rejuvenation in an otherwise homogenous, monotonous and simply dull team at times.
It worked with Holman and Matt McKay, and there is nothing there to say it cannot be repeated with some of these players…
1. Mitch Nichols (Brisbane Roar)
Still considered a young gun among the league, Nichols is perceived well and is truly as a leader and senior player in the Brisbane ranks.
Signed during Frank Farina’s reign, Nichols was originally dubbed as “one for the future”.
He has impressed many with his technical panache and incisive passing, but one attribute that makes him so endearing is his work ethic and willingness to learn.
If one monitors the progress made since his entry to the league, he has matured into one of the league’s best central midfielders and has developed a reputation for scoring plenty of goals and racking up a plethora of assists.
He has so far earned one cap for his endeavours, but one must think he has many more ahead of him.
Being part of the Olyroos’ (under 23) failed-Olympic bid, he will surely move to Europe in the foreseeable future and will look to establish himself as a regular in the future for the Socceroos. He is one to watch.
2. Bernie Ibini-Isei (Central Coast Mariners)
Having just experienced his breakthrough A-League season, Ibini’s contract was extended on the first of February for an extra two years, a smart move by the Mariner’s hierarchy.
He is now being recognised as a quick, strong and explosive forward, carrying both a potent strike and a gliding finish.
The Nigerian immigrant uses his height to his advantage and, along with Oliver Bozanic, terrorised A-League defences this term.
Backing up his strong season in the Youth League, where he achieved top-scorer status, he continued his form to bag another seven goals and two assists.
At the tender age of 19 he has a prolific future ahead of him, so long as he manages to keep his injury sheet clean.
Expect another high-yielding season in 2012-13 as the Mariners try to win their first A-League title.
3. Matthew Ryan (Central Coast Mariners)
Highly regarded among the A-League after receiving consecutive gongs for Young Player of the Year – and his maiden Goalkeeper of the Year award – Ryan’s meteoric rise has certainly turned heads.
Relatively unknown before his breakout season of 2010/11, Ryan entered the scene after replacing Danny Vukovic and has not turned back since.
Unable to break into the national team due to Mark Schwarzer’s invincible status and continued consistent performances, Ryan remains on the sidelines at least until Schwarzer retires.
Despite this looming possibility, he would presumably be considered behind Adam Federici in the keepers pecking order. But once he matures and moves on from the Coast, he will be in serious contention.
4. Eli Babalj (Melbourne Heart)
Despite being part of Melbourne Heart’s inaugural season in 2010-11, Eli Babalj (like Bernie Ibini) experienced his breakthrough season in the current term.
He was the man most responsible for the Heart’s barnstorming mid-season run, and this season alone he has hit the back of the net nine times out of 21, a goals-per-game ratio of 0.43, among the best in the league.
Even though he has represented Australia at under-20 level, he is still eligible to play for either Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Australia.
He is no doubt being watched by Osieck in a bid to get him tied down to Australia. A Serb by ethnicity, he was raised in Australia, a vital point in the bid to influence him to represent us.
5. Mate Dugandzic (Melbourne Heart)
The second Heart player on this list, Dugandzic established himself as a fundamental part of the Heart set-up and as one of the most valuable players of the A-League.
At only 22, he has developed a reputation that consists of a player that whips in dangerous and inviting crosses, has a curling shot and a skilful free-kick.
He completed a switch from cross-town rivals the Victory in 2011 and has already scored as many goals for the Heart as he did for his former team, in 14 less matches.
He has played for the Olyroos thrice, meaning that he will most likely represent Australia, despite his Croatian roots.
He already turned down a move from the Victory to Belgian side KAS Eupen, instead opting to sign for rivals the Heart.
Dugandzic is definitely one to watch in the future and a move will most likely be on the cards at the end of next season, probably to Europe.
If this is fulfilled, his national team hopes will surely be realised.
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