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The Hearts star is one of three players to represent the Tynecastle side with Nathaniel Atkinson and Kye Rowlesalso part of Graham Arnold's 26-man squad. They begin their World Cup bid tonight.

France are overwhelming favourites in their opening clash against relative minnows Australia, especially given the presence of the mighty Kylian Mbappé. But Les Bleus fans can be forgiven a few jitters – as a range of injuries afflicts the squad and the curse of World Cup title-holders looms large.

Australia squeezed through qualifying thanks to a dramatic penalty shootout win over Peru and face a tricky group containing the world champions France and an in-form Denmark

"Cop that John."

Aaron Mooy and Mat Ryan have proven their worth to the Socceroos time and time again, so they don't need to say much to lead the team, writes Samantha Lewis.

The top two teams from each of the eight groups advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Check out how the Socceroos are faring in Group D, plus see the other groups' standings and fixtures here.

The goalkeeper has returned to a back-up role after his qualification heroics but is content to support Australia’s No 1 Mat Ryan

Finally the world is getting to meet our boy Tony.

While the build-up to Qatar has focused on issues off the field, there is still some football to be played on it. Samantha Lewis previews Group D and lays out Australia's possible path forward.

The Easter Road attacker has been forced to withdraw from the Socceroos' squad due to being unable to fully recover from the injury he sustained during club action.

Australia coach Graham Arnold will rely on his players to have each other’s backs when they meet the millionaire world champions