The value of foreign-developed players: What Football Australia can learn from Morocco for Socceroos success
Morocco is not the only nation to find success with a large contingent of foreign-developed players - and the Socceroos can join that list.
Socceroo Brett Holman says he’s recovered well enough from Australia’s World Cup qualifier in Japan to have no concerns about putting in a full game against Jordan on Tuesday night.
Having barely played in six months while frozen out at English Premier League club Aston Villa, Holman was outstanding in the Socceroos’ 1-1 draw with Japan last week.
He put in his usual all-action performance for 70 minutes, before being replaced barely able to lift his legs.
But Holman says he’s thrilled with how he has recovered, and is confident he can produce more of the same for longer if selected for the must-win qualifier against Jordan at Etihad Stadium.
“I was a bit sore, especially the day after, and there was a lot of recovery to be done. I’m feeling good now,” Holman said.
“When you’re having a tough time at your club, it’s always good to come in, play and start.
“You can train as hard and long as you want but, if you’re not playing games, then it’s a completely different scenario.
“I’m all good for it (the match against Jordan).”
Holman looked particularly dangerous linking up with youngsters Robbie Kruse and Tommy Oar in wide positions, and admitted he enjoyed the combination – which is likely to feature far more than against Japan as the Socceroos chase three points at home.
“It just adds a different dynamic to our game. If you see how Tommy came into the team … he’s been pretty damn good,” Holman said.
“He’s got an unbelievable left foot, a great cross and he keeps the pitch really wide.
“Robbie’s always going to be dangerous too.
“They’re in good form, they’ve had great (club) seasons and it’s showing at training.”
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Morocco is not the only nation to find success with a large contingent of foreign-developed players - and the Socceroos can join that list.
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