Melbourne Victory’s Nishan Velupillay dreaming of a Socceroos debut

A potential Socceroos debutant’s coffee plans quickly changed after he was notified he had been chosen in the national squad.

Uncapped winger Nishan Velupillay admits being selected in the Socceroos squad came as a “shock”.

The selection of the 23-year-old Melbourne Victory attacking weapon was one of the biggest surprises in new Socceroos coach Tony Popovic’s squad for Thursday night’s clash against China in Adelaide and next Tuesday’s battle with Japan in Saitama.

“I got a text saying I got in (when) I was walking to the cafe with a couple of mates,” Velupillay said.

“I said ‘OK, I’m going to the Socceroos, I guess’.

“It was a bit of a shock to me.”

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Despite his surprise at being chosen, Velupillay said the chance to play for the Socceroos had been his ongoing goal.

“Every kid dreams to play for Australia. It’s something I’ve been working (at) for a while, and I’m pretty happy to be here,” he said.

“There was obviously excitement for my family. They’ve been there from the start and they’re extremely proud of me.

“If I can make my debut, they’ll be even more proud.”

Velupillay was one of three current Victory players chosen by Popovic, the Melbourne club’s former coach, along with right-back Jason Geria and playmaker Daniel Arzani.

The Socceroos are intent on getting their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign back on track after last month’s 1-0 loss to Bahrain and 0-0 draw with Indonesia.

Socceroos midfielder Riley McGree said being under pressure was a “privilege”.

“Pressure is great and if you can relish the pressure and you can use it to your advantage, then it can only lead to good results,” McGree said.