Fresh Socceroos Faces Could Make All The Difference Against Japan

When the Socceroos headed into camp this past Monday (March 21) to prepare for the upcoming Japan and Saudi Arabia games, there was a sense of change and freshness.

Due to that pesky Covid-19 and a wealth of injuries, Australia has found themselves with a bit of a reshuffle in the squad.

Midfielders Aaron Mooy and Jackson Irvine both tested positive for the virus, while Riley McGree fell to a calf injury.

Just yesterday, Tom Rogic had to pull out of the squad with an injury, and Mariners defender Kye Rowles had to withdraw with Covid-19.

But as they say, with change comes opportunity, and the squad has welcomed a slew of domestic-based players who are ready to make an impact.

Melbourne Victory striker Nick D'Agostino has enjoyed a resurgence recently and that has brought a new sense of confidence since leaving Perth Glory.

The Victory man is his side's top goalscorer this season with seven goals to his name.

When speaking on his call up, he said: "As a number nine, you want to believe in yourself to go out there and score goals. At the moment I'm flying high, and there's no bigger honour than being called up for the national team."

His goal-scoring ability was on full display last week against Japanese side Vissel Kobe, where he scored two goals.

He believes his experience in putting the ball in the back of the net against the Japanese players was key in his call up.

D'Agostino said: "I had this conversation with Arnie after being selected on the phone - that they're not that great defensively so there are plenty of opportunities to score goals."

His Victory teammate Ben Folami also received the surprise call up on Tuesday after Graig Goodwin and Jackson Irvine were ruled out.

Folami enjoyed a stint in the UK recently for Ipswich Town but has made an immediate impact since returning to Australia for Victory.

On his call up, he said: "It's an honour for me to be here, and even participate in any session."

He continued: "I've got to say a massive thanks to Tony Popovic and the coaching staff at Victory... the help they've given me, the time they've taken out of their day to give me advice, it's really worked for me."

Another new name joining the Socceroos is Uruguayan-born Bruno Fornaroli who made for a shock selection.

Folami spoke of Fornaroli's impact: "Bruno is a great guy, fantastic player as we all know and I'm excited to see him in the green and gold. I'm sure he'll bring a lot to the team."

20-year-old Marco Tilio also returns to the side after receiving his debut cap against Vietnam, as the enthusiasm and excitement of fresh faces ring clear for Australia.

Tilio said: "It just freshens up the team, with a bunch of young boys. So much confidence and energy coming through the group."

He also gave some advice to those potential debutants, adding: "Just take the opportunity and make the most of it. This is where memories are made and dreams are made."

Australia head to Japan tonight (March 24) for a crucial World Cup qualifier, where the young blood and fresh faces could make all the difference.

Featured Image Credit: Supplied / Speed Media / Alamy

Topics: Socceroos, Socceroos vs Japan, Ben Folami, Nicholas D'Agostino, Bruno Fornaroli, Marco Tilio