Young excellence, promotion battles, and a happy farewell: The Australian team of the week from players around the globe
Even though St.Pauli ultimately lost a high-scoring affair, Jackson Irvine was a standout, as well as scoring a late goal.
Cyprus-based striker Apostolos Giannou will be named as the latest replacement player for Australia’s injury-hit Asian Cup squad on Thursday.
Giannou’s spot in the squad will be confirmed on Thursday barring any dramas from his medical with the team in the UAE, after Martin Boyle became the latest Socceroo to be ruled out of the tournament.
The Scottish-born winger injured his knee in last weekend’s 5-0 friendly win over Oman in Dubai, with scans confirming on Monday he was out of the tournament.
Boyle scored twice in his second Socceroos appearance against Lebanon in November and was seen as an exciting prospect as Australia attempts to defend their Asian title.
The Hibernian player joins a growing list of attackers on the sidelines for Graham Arnold’s men.
Star midfielder Aaron Mooy and young gun Daniel Arzani had both been earlier omissions due to knee injuries.
Giannou will join Mooy’s replacement James Jeggo as late call-ups for the tournament, with Australia’s campaign starting against Jordan on Sunday.
The 28-year-old has made six appearances for Australia and scored his first international goal in August 4-0 rout of Kuwait.
Winger Mathew Leckie (hamstring) and attacking midfielder Tom Rogic (knee) have also battled niggles in the build up to the tournament.
Defender Rhyan Grant said the mood in the camp was still positive despite the injury setbacks and concerns.
“There’s a few injuries there but a lot of the boys are coming good now,” Grant said.
“It’s just one of those things you get on with.
“The morale around the boys is good and there’s always plenty going on and a lot of laughs.”
The team arrived in Al Ain on Wednesday, where they were presented with bouquets of flowers by staff upon arrival at their hotel.
Australia will hold its first training session on Thursday afternoon in Al Ain, where the group stage opener against Jordan will be held.
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Even though St.Pauli ultimately lost a high-scoring affair, Jackson Irvine was a standout, as well as scoring a late goal.
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A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.
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