Socceroos all-time leading goal scorer Tim Cahill has been selected in Ange Postecoglou’s 30-man squad ahead of this month’s 2018 World Cup Qualifiers against Iraq and United Arab Emirates.
Cahill is one of seven domestic players to make the shortlist which will be cut down to 23 after this week’s fixtures across the globe.
The City midfielder’s impressive form this season has seen him net seven times, creating six other chances and picking up an assist in his 17 A-League appearances for the Club.
Socceroos Head Coach Ange Postecoglou believes he has the right balance of experience and youth to pick up maximum points in both qualifiers.
“It is encouraging to have the experience of Tim Cahill, Tomi Juric, Mass Luongo, Mitch Langerak and James Troisi back in the squad but we also have some players who have been on the fringe who have been knocking on the door of both the squad and the starting side,” Postecoglou said.
“There is also recognition for some players who have been in good form in the A-League and have the characteristics to fit in with some of our experienced players as we move into an important stretch of qualifying.
“We have named an extended squad with a few notable returns but we will make a final decision after this weekend’s matches around Australia, Asia and Europe. With the Asian leagues and some countries in Europe only just starting I wanted to have another look.”
Match Details
Iraq v Soccceroos
Thursday 23 March
PAS Stadium, Tehran (Iran)
Kick-off 4.30pm (11pm AEDT)
Socceroos v United Arab Emirates
Tuesday 28 March
Sydney Football Stadium
Kick-off 8pm AEDT
