Star without a touch of Australia named in Socceroos squad

Tony Popovic’s Bold Selection for Socceroos Squad

Tony Popovic has revealed the reasoning behind his decision to include a Croatian-born forward who has never set foot in Australia in the Socceroos squad for the final international friendlies ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The player, Ante Suto, has been called into the team despite not having visited the country, with his eligibility coming from his father, who was born in Melbourne.

Suto, 25, has made a strong impression with Scottish Premiership side Hibernian FC, scoring three goals and providing one assist in six appearances since his January transfer. His journey from Croatia to Scotland has not gone unnoticed by Popovic, who has taken an interest in the young striker’s potential.

“He was at Slaven Balupo in Croatia, which is a mid-table team, and I was watching him there because I knew his father, being born in Australia,” Popovic said. “I had no idea whether he wanted to play for Australia. When that was made clear, I was actually on my way to watch him in Split against Hajduk and then he moved to Hibs so it was an interesting move because I wasn’t sure if he’d adapt to the physicality and speed of the game.”

Popovic highlighted the role of Mile Jedinak in evaluating Suto’s potential. “Mile went and met him, watched him train and play and had dinner with him. He’s got a real eye for goal, real good instincts in and around the box which you’re always looking for. He’s a confident young man and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do in our environment, with the other players, and stepping up into international football.”

The coach emphasized that Suto’s desire to represent Australia is strong, and this has been reflected in his performances. “It will be something very new for him and I’m sure very exciting as well. If he hadn’t settled the way he has at Hibs, we probably wouldn’t have called him. He’s in due to what he’s showing on the field, he’s scoring regularly, albeit he’s coming off the bench but he started the other day. He’s showing a desire to play for Australia and his performances have shown he deserves to be here.”

Other New Additions to the Squad

Suto is not the only uncapped player named in the squad. Teen defender Lucas Herrington and striker Deni Juric have also been included. Popovic expressed confidence in Herrington’s future, calling him “one for the future” and suggesting he could potentially make the World Cup squad.

Awer Mabil has also been selected for the first time under Popovic’s tenure. He last featured in the squad almost two years ago, and his inclusion signals a fresh start under the new manager.

Key Players and Injuries

Despite their absence from the recent friendly matches, Harry Souttar and Jackson Irvine are expected to be part of the World Cup squad. Souttar has been out of action for over 15 months due to an ACL injury, but Popovic confirmed he has been training with Leicester City’s first team over the past three weeks. “We thought with all the travel, I think for the benefit of Harry it’s better to stay there and train well,” Popovic said.

Irvine, who captains FC St Pauli, has faced some challenges due to a chronic foot issue. However, he has been regularly playing for the German club and is expected to be fit for the World Cup.

Upcoming Matches

The Socceroos will host Cameroon in Sydney on Friday, March 27, before taking on Curacao at AAMI Park the following Tuesday. These matches will provide fans with a glimpse of the team that will represent Australia in North America.

Socceroos Squad List

The squad includes:

• Patrick Beach
• Aziz Behich
• Jordan Bos
• Martin Boyle
• Cameron Burgess
• Alessandro Circati
• Milos Degenek
• Jason Geria
• Lucas Herrington
• Ajdin Hrustic
• Nestory Irankunda
• Jacob Italiano
• Paul Izzo
• Deni Juric
• Fran Karacic
• Awer Mabil
• Connor Metcalfe
• Riley McGree
• Aiden O’Neill
• Paul Okon-Engstler
• Alexander Robertson
• Mathew Ryan
• Ante Suto
• Kai Trewin
• Nishan Velupillay
• Patrick Yazbek