Of course Tony Popovic would say “it should be a very exciting group for the Australian public” about the 26 Socceroos he has selected for this month’s World Cup, as he did on Monday. The leader of Australia’s North American adventure needs to at least appear to believe in his squad, to have their backs, as this unproven group prepares for the challenges of a prickly Group D.
But, by jingo, he might just be right. These players are oozing with skill and potential, bursting with the enthusiasm of youth. This fresh aroma was topped off by the surprise of uncapped attackers Cristian Volpato and Tete Yengi edging out more experienced options in a daring selection for a coach not known to take risks.
