Danning wins Young Socceroos selection

Sydney FC star Kofi Danning moved a step closer to his dream of playing for Australia at a major tournament when selected on Monday in a preliminary Young Socceroos squad for next month’s FIFA U20 World Cup.

Danning was included in a 30-man squad named by coach Jan Versleijen for the event, which will be held in Egypt from September 24 to October 16.

The 18-year-old has lived in Australia for 11 years but was only given clearance to play in green and gold in major tournaments by FIFA last week, after he had been caught up in tough new eligibility rules because he was born in Ghana.

He now looks set to realise his dream after he was one of 21 rising A-League stars named in the squad.

“It’s one step closer to my dream,” Danning said.

“I’ve been away with the (Young Socceroos) team a couple of times this year and got to experience what it’s like to represent Australia. It’s great to know I’m in contention for the World Cup and I’m very excited.”

Four of Danning’s Sydney FC teammates were also included; Rhyan Grant, Antony Golec, Matthew Jurman and Chris Payne.

Newcastle’s Ben Kantarovski and Jason Hoffman, Brisbane Roar’s Mitch Nichols and Adelaide’s Daniel Mullen were other established A-League players to make the squad.

The nine overseas-based players included Bolton’s Aaron Mooy and AZ Alkmaar’s James Holland, who were called into camp for the Socceroos’ 3-0 win over Ireland this month.

Versleijen warned they would have to continue to impress in order to make the final squad of 21, to be named on September 8.

“The next few weeks will be very exciting with these players needing to continue their form right up to the final selection,” he said.

“Apart from being technically and tactically strong, they will need to be physically and mentally tough because there are no excuses and no second chances at a World Cup.”

The Young Socceroos have drawn a tough group including Brazil, Costa Rica and the Czech Republic.