The Olyroos have been dealt a blow in their bid to qualify for the Rio Olympics.
Forward Chris Ikonomidis and goalkeeper Paul Izzo will not play in the under-23 Asian Championships, beginning this week in Qatar, despite being selected by coach Aurelio Vidmar.
Ikonomodis, who has two Socceroos caps, failed to be released for the Australian squad by Italian club Lazio.
The 20-year-old will be replaced in the squad by Western Sydney Wanderers forward Jaushua Sotirio.
Central Coast gloveman Izzo will return to Australia to deal with a knee injury, with Adelaide United goalkeeper John Hall flying into Qatar to replace him.
The Olyroos must finish in the top three sides in the tournament to book a place at the Olympic Games.
Australia begins its campaign on Friday morning (AEDT) against United Arab Emirates.
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