Australian Asian Cup Squad Announced

Ange Postecoglou has named his 23-man squad to play in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. The inclusion of a more focused attacking element crucial to the squad according to Postecoglou.

‘”In any tournament going into it with the more attacking options you have – again going back to the World Cup, I thought it was an area we were pretty limited,” the 49-year-old said to theworldgame.com.au.

The inclusion of in-form A-League striker Nathan Burns is reward for a great start to the season for the Wellington Phoenix midfield/striker who has netted a league-topping 10 goals already this season.

“I’ve known Nathan [Burns] a long time, since I coached him in the Joeys,” Postecoglou said.

“I’ve always known he had the ability and he’s the type of player who’ll fit in with what we want to do but his form is compelling.”

The tournament, running from January 9 to 31, will open with hosts the Socceroos playing Kuwait in Melbourne.      

In their first test since the World Cup, the Socceroos will be keen to impress their home fans. 

“It’s been almost six months in the making since the FIFA World Cup,” Postecoglou said.

Postecoglou has a lot on the line after a disappointing World Cup in terms of results. His vision for the team is set to play out in the Asian Cup tournament and a good result will solidify his position as head coach.

Socceroos squad for AFC Asian Cup 2015 Australia