Joeys squad named for World Cup qualifier tournament

Morgan, who over the past two months has overseen training camps in New South Wales and Victoria with some of Australia’s most talented teen footballers, has finalised a squad with 17 players from A-League clubs, five from state-based competitions, and one overseas based player – Tristan Hammond of Sporting Lisbon in Portugal.

Included in the line-up is former Socceroos' keeper Zeljko Kalac's son, Oliver. (However Perth Glory coach Tony Popovic is not Alex Popovic's dad.)

Morgan’s squad will have a tough test in Group D of the 2018 AFC U16 Championship where they face defending champions Iraq, Korea Republic, and Afghanistan. Nevertheless, the Joeys boss is confident his side have the capacity to excel while in Malaysia.

“I am very excited about the quality in the squad,” said Morgan. “We have players from all over Australia, and one who plays in Portugal.

“We have had two very successful camps in the last couple of months. These boys have earned an opportunity to represent their country and all are focused on performing to a standard that can win this Championship.

“We will come together for a couple of days in Sydney before departing for a brief pre-tournament camp. In these days we will continue to refine our understanding, and make sure the boys are conditioned to perform.

“Competition for inclusion in the starting line-up will be strong, as we have two players for every position but also several who can play two or three positions." 

Australia qualified after topping their group in Mongolia last September, finishing ahead of Vietnam, Cambodia and Mongolia in Ulaanbaatar.

The Joeys squad will convene on Sunday in Narrabeen before traveling to Kuala Lumpur for their pre-tournament camp on Wednesday.

Australia must reach at least the semi-final stage of the tournament to qualify for the 2019 U17 World Cup in Peru,

Meanwhile, experienced Pararoos squad member, Ben Roche, will join the team’s staff during the Championship. Roche will take charge of team operations and logistics with guidance from current Team Manager, Marty Judge.

FFA’s Head of National Teams Luke Casserly said the organisation is pleased to provide an opportunity to one of Australia’s most committed Pararoos.

“Ben has played 41 times for the Pararoos since he made his debut in 2005 against Japan,” said Casserly. “Ben has also played an important role in helping to fundraise for the Pararoos, and raise the team’s profile by assisting with community events and other initiatives, including the team’s recent documentary.

“We’re pleased to have been able to provide Ben with this professional development opportunity and are sure that he will make a great contribution to the Joeys’ campaign in Malaysia."

Joeys 23-player squad for 2018 AFC U16 Championship (Malaysia)

Joeys 2018 AFC U16 Championship Match Schedule – Group D

Korea Republic v Australia

Saturday, 22 September 2018
Venue: Petaling Jaya Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kick-off: 8.45pm (local); 10.45pm (AEST)

Australia v Iraq
Tuesday, 25 September 2018
Venue: UM Arena, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kick-off: 4.30pm (local); 6.30pm (AEST)

Australia v Afghanistan
Friday, 28 September 2018
Venue: Petaling Jaya Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kick-off: 4.30pm (local); 6.30pm (AEST)