Perth Glory defender Josh Risdon has been called into the Caltex Socceroos squad for 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
He replaces England-based defender Bailey Wright, who has been withdrawn due to a toe injury.
Risdon will join his Socceroos team mates in camp this afternoon ahead of the match against Iraq at the Perth Rectangular Stadium on Thursday 1 September and the clash with the UAE in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday week (6 September).
Socceroos group opponent guide
“Bailey has a minor injury that he has been nursing and although he played for Preston overnight we thought it better for him to stay in the UK,” Postecoglou said.
“We have two tough matches in quick succession and will need everyone ready to go.
“Josh Risdon has come into the group recently and equipped himself well and I have no doubt that he will do a job if required over the next two matches.”
The first players in Ange Postecoglou’s 23-man squad started arriving in Perth today as the Caltex Socceroos begin the final Stage of Asian Football Confederation (AFC) World Cup Qualifying alongside Japan, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Iraq and the UAE in Group B.
