Socceroos XI to Change for Qualifiers
Squad Overhaul Ahead of Crucial Matches
The Socceroos are set to make significant changes to their starting lineup for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with manager Graham Arnold keen to inject fresh blood into the team.
Arnold has been under pressure to improve the team's performances after a disappointing showing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the Socceroos failed to progress beyond the group stage.
New Faces in Defense and Midfield
The most notable change is expected to be in defense, where Arnold is likely to hand a starting role to uncapped defender Harry Souttar, who has been in impressive form for Stoke City in the English Championship.
In midfield, Arnold is expected to bring in Ajdin Hrustic, who has been in excellent form for Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, and Jackson Irvine, who has been a key player for Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership.
Striker Dilemma
The biggest question mark remains over who will lead the line for the Socceroos, with Arnold yet to decide on his preferred option.
Jason Cummings, who has scored 10 goals in 12 games for Central Coast Mariners in the A-League Men, is in contention, as is Adam Taggart, who has scored 6 goals in 11 games for Perth Glory in the A-League Men.
Arnold's Optimism
Despite the changes, Arnold is confident that the Socceroos can qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
"We have a lot of quality in this squad, and I'm confident that we can get the results we need," Arnold said.
Upcoming Fixtures
The Socceroos will open their qualifying campaign against Qatar on March 23, before facing India on March 28.
They will then travel to face Cambodia on June 7, before hosting Vietnam on June 12.
Possible Starting Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Mat Ryan
- Defense: Harry Souttar, Bailey Wright, Kye Rowles, Aziz Behich
- Midfield: Ajdin Hrustic, Jackson Irvine, Aaron Mooy
- Attack: Martin Boyle, Jason Cummings, Mathew Leckie
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