BREWERS midfielder Jackson Irvine has been selected in Australia’s 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Thailand.
Irvine was originally selected in their 30-man squad but has since been placed in the shortened 23-man squad and will be in line to pick up his seventh cap for the Socceroos if he features against Thailand in Bangkok.Speaking about the call-up, the in-form midfielder said: “I am really pleased to be called up to the national team, it’s a privilege and not a right. I am pleased the manager has selected me again.
“I am used to the long travelling now, it’s exciting getting to visit different places while representing my country. With this game against Thailand only being the one instead of the usual two it will be good for us as we usually don’t get long to train, due to long travelling and recovery but this time it will give the squad a good chance to impress.
“The manager has selected a bigger squad this time, he has his own style of management and recognises that all different teams play their own style. Everyone is learning everyday, we have progressed really well over the last 12 months.”
The game against Thailand for the Socceroos will be a strange one due to the fact the country is in national mourning of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulvaej.
FIFA have asked fans attending the match to be respectful by wearing white, black, grey clothing and will not be allowing banners, or any fan chants to take place during this game.
Speaking on the situation of the game Irvine said: “Obviously it’s an unusual situation to play in but I am sure we will be respectful and still play our game. It will be completely opposite to our game against Saudi Arabia which was a hostile atmosphere.”