Graham Arnold has named a 31-man squad for the Socceroos’ upcoming fixtures against New Zealand, with seven debutants named for what will serve as a crucial selection audition for the World Cup.
One of those is budding 17-year-old talent Garang Kuol, who put his name in lights with a stellar showing against Barcelona in the A-League All Stars clash.
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Kuol burst onto the scene for the Central Coast Mariners and is being looked at by some of Europe’s biggest clubs, such is his rapid rise.
The teenager admitted the call-up was somewhat unexpected, but will do everything to take his chance with both hands.
“It’s a huge opportunity, Kuol said at the squad announcement press conference.
“I’ve always wanted to play for the Socceroos, but I never thought it would have happened so soon.
“It’s a proud moment for me and my family. I just want to prove myself and keep moving forward.”
Players also set to make their debuts for the Socceroos are Cameron Devlin, Jason Cummings, Ryan Strain, Harrison Delbridge, Tyrese Francois and Keanu Baccus.
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Devlin, Strain and Baccus are all a part of the massive Australian contingent competing in the Scottish Premiership, while Cummings earns a call-up after a stunning run of form for the Mariners having joined the club in January.
Arnold noted his decision to name such a large squad is because he plans on playing two entirely different starting line-ups against the Kiwis, with a major emphasis placed on youth and giving them valuable experience.
The Socceroos boss highlighted the importance of a strong camp as the clock ticks down to the World Cup in November.
“This camp is the last opportunity we will have to work with the squad ahead of November’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament, and all players are competing for a spot in the final squad which will be announced in early November,” Arnold said.
“With two games in four days, this camp provides us with a unique opportunity to bring in some new players who can push for selection ahead of the FIFA World Cup.”
“I’m excited to see a number of young Australian’s gaining great experience across Europe and throughout Asia, and it is important we bring them into the national team environment to build on our depth and assess their capabilities at this level,” continued Graham Arnold.
“We have been closely monitoring our players since qualifying for the FIFA World Cup and are regularly speaking with them about this opportunity.
“I can’t wait to get back into camp to work with our experienced group of players and the next generation of emerging stars.”
FULL SQUAD
Goalkeepers
Mitch Langerak
Andrew Redmayne
Mathew Ryan
Defenders
Nathaniel Atkinson
Aziz Behich
Harrison Delbridge
Milos Degenek
Thomas Deng
Fran Karacic
Trent Sainsbury
Ryan Strain
Bailey Wright
Joel King
Midfielders
Keanu Baccus
Cameron Devlin
Tyrese Francois
Ajdin Hrustic
Denis Genreau
Jackson Irvine
Riley McGree
Connor Metcalfe
Aaron Mooy
Forwards
Jason Cummings
Martin Boyle
Garang Kuol
Mathew Leckie
Awer Mabil
Adam Taggart
Marco Tilio
Mitchell Duke
Jamie Maclaren
GK:
