Australia v China: New Socceroos coach Tony Popovic explains omission of highly rated young gun

The Tony Popovic era of Australian football is upon us – but there was key one name missing from his first squad ahead of the World Cup qualifier against China.

The international eligibility of highly rated young Australian Alex Robertson is back at the forefront of the minds of Socceroos fans – and that of new coach Tony Popovic as well.

As he promised there will be no “excuses” if the Socceroos fail to deliver in his first game in charge on Thursday night at Adelaide Oval, Popovic also gave an update on the availability of the impressive right back.

Popovic’s vow ahead of Australia’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against China came as he revealed he didn’t pick Robertson in his 26-man squad because the 21-year-old Cardiff City midfielder was “not eligible” for selection despite having already played two friendly matches for the Socceroos.

“Every Australian that’s available is on the radar, every single one,” Popovic said.

“My understanding is he (Robertson) is not eligible, so that’s why he’s not under consideration for this camp.”

While Football Australia quickly clarified that the ineligibility was because of a “FIFA paperwork” issue, Robertson is not yet tied to Australia and may still be weighing up his international options as he is also eligible to represent Peru, Scotland and England.

Alex Robertson (C) has twice played for the Socceroos – but isn’t yet tied to them internationally. Picture: Getty

Despite the two friendly matches against Ecuador and Argentina last year, Robertson won’t be cap tied to Australia until he plays three competitive matches – not friendlies – before he turns 21.

Popovic said he was happy with the squad he had chosen, and was confident of a good performance against China despite having had little time to implement his tactics after only being appointed as Graham Arnold’s successor last month.

Originally published as Australia v China: New Socceroos coach Tony Popovic explains omission of highly rated young gun