CELTIC midfielder Tom Rogic has been named in Australia’s World Cup squad for next month’s qualifiers.
Boss Ange Postecoglou praised the 23-year-old’s ability, but insisted he was NOT certain to play against Saudi Arabia or Japan.
He said: “I think Tom’s got a really good temperament, Every time he’s played this year, he’s made an impact.
“It could be with a goal – and he’s got quite a few from midfield – or an assist, or just being really influential in the game.
“Tom’s certainly a part of everything, but he’s not guaranteed to start, as is anyone else in the group.
“What I do know is when they come in any role they do play, they do it to the best of their ability.”
Postecoglou added he could pick out “two or three” starting line-ups in a number of formations and still feel confident the Socceroos overcoming their next two opponents.
He said: “Hopefully, that makes us difficult to match up against.
“We know in the back half of next year we’ll have the likes of Thailand, Saudi, United Arab Emirates all coming to Australia and we’ll also have Iraq at a neutral venue.
“Also, we’ve had a good start with the two wins which is pleasing, but under no illusions that these two games will be just as tough, but for different reasons.
“It’s really important for us to continue our strong performances.”
The Socceroos travel to Saudi Arabia on October 7 before facing the Japanese four days later in Melbourne.
