JS, I'm going to be critical of this take. And it seems a lot of posts hold a similar view I disagree with. I found the previous Popa press conference quite interesting. Basically, do you want to be selected over the 50 cap incumbent? Kick down the fucking door and you will be.
In his most expansive interview yet since becoming national team boss, Tony Popovic has delivered some home truths to those dreaming of pulling on the green and gold.
www.smh.com.au
There was also mention of Garang or Okon Junior. These kids are still playing against kids. I love the talent, but for FM only, not for must win WCQs. I appreciate the old enough, good enough argument. But even Harry Kewell was picked after having cracked the Leeds first team in the PL. I don't see these are really comparable.
Irvine is a 70 cap socceroo who is an automatic selection for his side in the Bundesliga. There isn't an Australian squad in history he wouldn't warrant selection for or be in contention to start. He has absolutely had some poor games, but would any of the other players suggested be likely to perform better given they play at a lower standard? On their day anything is possible, but I wouldn't consider it likely.
Of Irvine, Ballard, Triantis and Nisbett, it seems most people here would leave Irvine out for two of those other guys. Irvine has done it for 10 years as a starter in Europe and this season made the step up a division to a big 5 league. These guys have one season playing well in Europe for smaller clubs in smaller leagues. If they were doing this at a bigger club in a bigger league I could understand the sentiment more. But none of these guys are kicking in the door demanding to take the starting spot. They are putting together solid first seasons in Europe and should be considered to hopefully integrate into the squad and take an opportunity if it arises.
Similarly Leckie is another 70 caps. Slightly different case, slightly older, could still be in Europe but came home and played well in Aliga. If he is fit and playing well for City he is an automatic squad selection, potentially starting. There is a lot of value in the experience and having been there and done it. Is Irankunda a better selection? Maybe, the talent is there, but has he kicked in the door? Has he been elite for Grasshoppers?
From the article:
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9 starts in a league that is a small step up from Aliga. Subbed off every match, 3 assists. I've not watched the matches, from all reports he has been quite good, but hardly a big sample, just a good, solid start to his season there. But probably not 'Elite'.
View attachment 1343
This is not to say picking any of these guys is the wrong choice, but I wanted to push back a bit as there seems to be the idea that some of these guys would obviously be an improvement on what we have seen to date or are obviously better players. Best case they are playing week in at equivalent levels, or lower levels, so it isn't clear they would come in an perform at higher levels than the incumbents.
