Harry Van der Saag earns Aussie call-up before hitting pitch for Sydney FC in A-League
He was excited when promoted to Sydney FC’s A-League squad. But now Harry Van der Saag is in China and over the moon about where his football is taking him.
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Right-back Harry Van der Saag was excited at the thought of making his A-League debut this season.
Now he’s been handed the opportunity to debut on the world stage even before shirting up for Sydney FC.
The recently turned 20-year-old is thrilled to be given the chance to play for Australia in a series of under 23 matches.
“This is the first time I have been asked to represented my country,” said the Sydney FC player in a call from China this week ahead of matches against Korea, Lithuania and the host nation.
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“It’s very exciting to see how I fit into the national team.”
Van der Saag was promoted to the Sydney FC A-League squad in September with Ryan Teague, 17, and Marco Tilio, 18. Tilio and Teague have competed for the Young Socceroos and Joeys.
While being named in Sydney FC game squads, Van der Saag has still to take the pitch in the sky blue.
But the Narrabeen talent said the faith shown by the coaching staff at Sydney FC had boosted his confidence - and his playing level.
“I think all the hard work is starting to pay off,’’ Van der Saag said.
“I’m sure it helps being an A-League player. People see me. Your name is on the radar, your name is in the system.
“It’s like a perfect storm. Their (Sydney FC) confidence in me has given me more confidence in myself as well.
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“I’m definitely loving the A-League environment. It’s a different speed, a different feeling.’’
Van der Saag and 24 teammates are in Chongqing, China, for the three match friendly series.
The Australian under 23 squad is being led by interim coach Gary van Egmond who oversaw the Young Socceroos’ successful recent qualification for the 2020 AFC u19 championship in Chinese Taipei.
The squad is preparing for the 2020 AFC u23 Championship in Thailand where three Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualification places for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics are up for grabs.
The November friendlies give players like Van der Saag a chance to press for claims in these teams.
The Australians opened their campaign with a 5-1 victory over the under 23 Chinese men..
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Australia under 23 Match schedule
Sunday
Australia v DPR Korea
Chongqing City Dazu District Sports Centre Stadium
Kick-off: 7pm (AEDT)
Tuesday
Australia v Lithuania
Chongqing City Dazu District Sports Centre Stadium
Kick-off: 7pm (AEDT)