Exciting new Caltex Socceroo Ajdin Hrustic will definitely see game time over the next month as coach Ange Postecoglou manages his squad over a busy month.
Hrustic, a squad bolter who plays for Groningen in Holland, has enjoyed a breakout season in the Dutch Eredivisie.
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He will add some extra firepower up front for Ange Postecoglou, who named the Melbourne-raised talent today in his 23-man squad for June 8’s World Cup qualifier, June 13’s Brazil friendly and the Confederations Cup later in the month.
While the national team boss didn’t commit to saying he’d play in the crucial World Cup qualifier in Adelaide next week, Hrustic is certain to play some part of June’s Confederations Cup and the Brazil friendly on June 13.
OPPORTUNITY TO SHINE ON BIGGEST STAGE
“Every time someone’s in the squad, they get an opportunity. He’s one we’ve been tracking in the last 12 months and I got really good reports on him from the last Olyroos camp,” Postecoglou told reporters on Wednesday after announcing his 23-man squad for June.
“And even though he hasn’t started games for Groningen, he’s made an impact. He’s an attacking type and it’s an area of the park we’re continually looking for players like him, like Riley McGree in the last camp.
For Hrustic, to make an impact in such big games - starting with June 8's World Cup qualifier in Adelaide - will be the perfect way to show what he can do.
And it's good news for the entire squad, who are set to show what they can do too.
“I guess the fact he’s in camp for a whole month, we’ve got a number of games will mean he’s got more opportunity to contribute.
“And no doubt he’ll play at some point because if you look at our schedule, there’s absolutely no chance we’ll get through it with just 13 or 14 players.
“All 23 [players] will get some game time, including Ajdin," vowed Postecoglou.
The Caltex Socceroos tackle Saudi Arabia in a crucial World Cup Qualifer in Adelaide on June 8. Click Here for Tickets
