Jackson Irivine and Craig Goodwin ruled out of Socceroos squad

Ben Folami and Kenny Dougall have been added to the Socceroos squad as Covid-19 continues to cause problems ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Adelaide United’s Craig Goodwin is out of the Socceroos squad.. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Covid-19 continues to wreak havoc with the Socceroos’ preparations for Thursday night’s World Cup qualifier against Japan in Sydney, with Jackson Irvine and Craig Goodwin the latest casualties.

Already without star Aaron Mooy. who contracted the virus in Scotland, as well as coach Graham Arnold, who last week tested positive to Covid-19 for the second time in less than two months, the Socceroos have now lost midfielder Irvine and attacker Goodwin.

The pair will miss not only the clash against Japan but also the following week’s away match against Saudi Arabia.

Replacing them in the squad are Melbourne Victory forward Ben Folami and Blackpool midfielder Kenny Dougall.

Ben Folami (right) has been added to the Socceroos squad. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Goodwin was ruled out after being deemed to be a close contact for Covid-19, while Germany-based Irvine tested positive before he was due to leave for Australia.

The Socceroos are also sweating of the fitness of star playmaker Tom Rogic, who injured his ankle in his club side Celtic’s 4-0 weekend Scottish Premiership win over Ross County.

Rogic was substituted in the first half, with Celtic manager and former Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou taking no chances with the ex-Central Coast Mariners star.

“He has to go away with the national team – he’s an important player for Australia,” Postecoglou said.

“Hopefully, it’s not too bad.”

Originally published as Jackson Irivine and Craig Goodwin ruled out of Socceroos squad