Aussies Abroad Month in Review -September 2013

Compiled By Damian Davies

All systems go across Europe with club competitions hotting up and the group stages reached for the Champions and Europa Leagues.  The leagues in the Middle East are back in season as the football in Asia nears the end of their seasons. Fairly quiet on the transfer front given the window is closed, but a few more players that were released over the northern hemisphere summer were able to find a new club during the month.  The Socceroos played Brazil in a forgettable game as the WC squad starts to takes shape.   

Transfers:-  some players with European experience moved to new clubs. Interesting to note the transfer of young forward Matthew Fletcher to current EPL club Hull City. Will see how he progresses in the Development Squad as he looks to get back into the national picture.  After playing his junior international football with Australia, Ersan Gulum has now debuted for Turkey.

Additions/changes to player database:

Shane Cansdell-Sheriff (10 Nov 1982) – loan from Preston North End to Burton Albion, England

Matthew Fletcher (12 May 1992) – transferred to Hull City, England

Billy Konstantinidis (21 Apr 1986) – transferred to Panserraikos, Greece

Removed from player database: 

Ersan Gulum (17 May 1987) – represented Turkey Sept 2013, congratulations.

Daniell Zeleny (19 Oct 1988) – uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

Club Level:-

England (Premiership) – Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace) continues to be the only Aussie starting in the Premier League at the moment.  He has been playing every minute each game.  Mark Schwarzer (Chelsea) and Brad Jones (Liverpool) continue on the bench waiting for their opportunities.  Chris Herd is yet to play this season at Aston Villa.

England (Championship) – a fairly disappointing start to the season for our Aussies with their clubs generally sitting in the mid to lower places on the table.  Adding to that is the red cards recently received by Shane Lowry and Rhys Williams, resulting in some missed games.  Scott McDonald opened his scoring account at Millwall, hopefully the first of many as he tries to cement a starting position.  Not much else to report with Cisak (Burnley) and Federici (Reading) also on the bench.

England (League One) – more positive for our Aussies in this league with Bailey Wright continuing to get rave reviews for his performances in defence at Preston North End.  James Meredith has continued his strong start to the new season at Bradford City.  Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town) had a dream cup tie against Chelsea and continues to play 90 minutes each game.  Similar game time for Bradden Inman at Crewe Alexandria.  James Wesolowski (Oldham Athletic) has been also seeing good minutes while Neil Kilkenny is in and out of the Bristol City team.

England (League Two) – Ryan Williams made his debut at Oxford United during the month and marked the occasion with a goal.   

Germany (Bundesliga) – the big story in September was the Robbie Kruse brace for Bayer Leverkusen.  His performance in his debut start was outstanding and will hopefully translate to more game time in the coming weeks. Mitch Langerak continued on the bench at Dortmund.

Germany (2.Bundesliga) – Mathew Leckie’s good form at FSV Frankfurt was rewarded with a Socceroos call up. After scoring his debut goal at the same club, Rukavytsya was also rewarded with a call up.

Netherlands (Eredivisie) – continuing on that theme, Jason Davidson’s strong start to this campaign at Heracles Almelo saw him get the nod for the national team.  Tommy Oar has continued to grow at FC Utrecht were he has cemented his starting position.

Austria (Bundesliga) – James Holland is starting each game at Austria Wien, who are finding the going a little tougher this season.

Belgium (Pro League) – Mat Ryan remains as first choice keeper at Club Brugge.  Keeping an impressive number of clean sheets and being named in the team of the week on several occasions.

Scotland (Premier) – two young players receiving good minutes in this league are Jackson Irvine (Kilmarnock) and Dylan McGowan (Hearts).  Both are playing in the midfield.

Switzerland (Super League) – the conditions in Switzerland appear to be favourable to Aussies with Oliver Bozanic (FC Luzern) and Dario Vidosic (FC Sion) carrying on the success that Scott Chipperfield and Ljubo Milicevic experienced in that league.

 

Greece (Super League) – young keeper Dean Bouzanis made his debut for Aris during the month, hopefully the first of many appearances this season.

Cyprus (1. Division) – Robert Stambolziev is impressing early in his new club career at AEK Kouklion, starting most games and scoring as well.

Iceland (3. Deild) – a mention to Victorian keeper Kile Kennedy who took the chance of moving to Iceland.  He played every minute in a season where his club KF Fjardabyggd gained promotion.  Hopefully that form will see the former US college player transfer to a higher level.

USA (MLS) – the legend that is Tim Cahill continues to grow.  His scoring feats at New York Red Bulls over this season continue to be crucial in the run up to the finals.  David Carney is getting his match fitness back as he starts each game at the same club.

China (Super League) – the Aussies in this league continue to play full games and impress.  Most notably over September being Eddy Bosnar (Guangzhou R&F), Jonas Salley (Guizhou Renhe), Michael Marrone (Shanghai Shenxin) and Erik Paartalu (Tianjin Teda).

Japan (J League) – importantly for the national team, Josh Kennedy remains fit and playing each week at Nagoya Grampus.  Lucas Neill has made his way into the starting eleven at Omiya Ardija which is also great news for the Socceroos.

India (I-League) – this league has just commenced the new season, but plenty of Australian interest with ex A-League players Sean Rooney, Simon Colosimo and James Meyer all joining Tolgey Ozbey on opening day.

U.A.E (UFL) – also resuming a new season, Brett Holman, Billy Celeski and Milan Susak, all debuted for their new clubs.

Thailand (Premier League) – journeyman Danny Invincibile has returned to the pitch at Army United after injury delayed his start to the season.  Joining Kyle Nix (Chiangrai United) and Goran Subara (Bangkok Glass) who are both starters and frequent scorers in that league.

  

Injuries:-   World Cup hopefuls Carl Valeri (Sassuolo) and Adam Sarota (FC Utrecht) are both nearing returns after long periods out.   Kofi Danning (knee) continues his rehabilitation under the watchful eye of the Brisbane Roar medical staff. We are yet to see Eli Babalj make an impact at AZA Alkmaar with his groin injury sidelining him for several weeks now.

Club Competitions:-

Europe                             

(UEFA Champions League) – several Aussie players featuring in this competition.  James Holland (Austria Wien) was the only starter, but Mitchell Langerak came off the bench for the red-carded Weidenfeller. Tom Rogic (Celtic) and Mark Schwarzer (Chelsea) sat on the bench for their respective teams.

(UEFA Europa League) – no Aussies appeared.

Asia

(Asian Champions League) – no Aussies remain.

(AFC Cup) – no Aussies remain

Reserves and Youth:-

A fairly decent represention of Aussies in the English U21 league again this season.  Starting with Aston Villa, and after appearing in the NextGen Series last season, 17 year old midfielder Jordan Lyden now finds himself in the U21’s.  Alex Grant has transferred to Stoke City and has been playing 90 minutes each game for the U21’s.  The recovery of Dylan Tombides is gathering momentum as he now starts for West Ham U21’s.  Players like Aaron Lennox (QPR) and Rob Paratore (Leicester City) continue to progress.

International level:-  A 6-0 drubbing from Brazil was not the greatest result, but seems to have forced a bit of a shake up to the squad.  Several new faces to the Socceroos squad for the upcoming friendlies against both France and Canada with numerous players rewarded for demonstrating strong club form.  The World Cup squad is certainly taking shape, and these games will be a great opportunity to assess the abilities of the likes of Davidson, Langerak and Leckie.  The U20’s have gathered in Malaysia for an upcoming tournament in October.

Socceroo (capped) of the month – I talked him up but why not, Tim Cahill continues to amaze.  He is an Everton legend, and will be forever be prominent in their history.  His recent performances for New York Red Bulls continue to defy those critics that thought he was aging and slowing down.  He is creating a legacy there, and his ability to recovery quickly from injury and return to make a significant impact was demonstrated again in September.  Not bad for a 33 year old, and will have a huge role in Brazil.  

August –

Under (uncapped)  – seems to be a lot of former Central Coast Mariners doing exceptionally well abroad.  This month I want to highlight former skipper Alex Wilkinson, now in Korea at Jeonuk Hyundai.  After a fairly slow start, he has hit his straps recently and put in numerous quality perfromances.  May be too late for the WC squad, but the next Asian Cup would have to be on the radar for the 29 year old.

August -

Young player (U21) of the month – the talent that is Chris Ikonomid is is starting to get some deserved recognition.  After progressing through the youth teams at Atalanta, Italian giants Lazio saw enough potential to sign im up.  Now featuring in their Primavera team each week, he is touted to move through the ranks quickly. Fantastic that the FFA have also acknowledged this by bringing him into the national set-up.  Like the rapid rise of Jackson Irvine, watch this space

WANTED: New Socceroos Coach and Players

Can we all feel the flood that is going hit the Socceroos and their fans aspirations at the World Cup in Brazil next year?  Like we didn't already know from the Socceroos laborious World Cup qualifying that we are going to get our collective arses kicked for the entire world to see.

But did we have to see it in the flesh and so soon in full view of the football world?

Which FFA Muppet decided to play Brazil in Brazil in their capital Brasilia   (I thought the capital was Rio didn't you) on Brazil's national day? Like with the Anzac's landing on the wrong beach Gallipoli the logistics of this campaign was a complete fuck up. 

Some of the pre-game talk was centred around the Socceroos perfect opportunity to get some experience of what the World Cup will be like in Brazil.

I don't understand the thinking or the logic behind the idea of putting the Socceroos in a position where they would get an absolute hammering.

It was a defeat we should have avoided not the one we needed to have. What a bunch of football sadists we are sometimes.

WTF are you going to do about it Frank Lowy and Co?

The time is NOT now for analysing and assessing and breaking down of what went wrong. Now is the time for change. No NOT Barack Obama aspirational change but real change. Like a coaching change and a whole bunch of new players change. 

The Socceroos Opus  "shit on a stick"

We have heard all the excuses by the Socceroos boss and players many times and the same ones are repeated by Journalists and Bloggers alike to the point of ad nauseum, everyone on the same stage singing  in unison like an Ancient Greek chorus.  

  

The Golden Generation

We haven't been able to replace the Golden Generation. Jebus I’m so sick of hearing this. We have no faith in our younger players and are focusing too much on our older players.

The Lost Generation.

This is another excuse that gets trotted out. No football for a year between the old NSL and A-League and a whole generation of footballers got lost. Bullshit think again.

Aspiration vs Reality

We must rid ourselves of this aspirational thinking and dreaming with regards to the way we want our Socceroos to play. If you want to play beautiful football, with attacking intent and to win go and buy the latest FIFA game on Play station or XBOX. Or watch re-runs of Dutch Total football from the 70’s.

Development vs. Results.

At the moment it feels our whole coaching structure from the bottom to the top is based on excuses and fairy tale nostalgia.

On the weekend Craig Foster the false prophet of Australian football quacked that “Brazil 2014 should not be about results but approach and development”

By my count that makes the under 17 and the under 20 national teams, the Olyroos and now the Socceroos all “sacrificing results” so they can "focus on development". How noble our coaches are?  I didn't know the FFA curriculum called for a Quixotic approach to coaching.  Quixotic comes from the book Don Quixote and means “Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical:”

  

Miss Danielle and Miss Sarah

Does anyone play to win anymore? I know when kids play the focus is on fun and no-one keeps count of the goals, perhaps the Socceroos would feel more comfortable in this environment. 

Why even go for development? Let’s focus on having fun and achieving aspirational goals.  My three year old nephew Kristian who goes to pre-school is taught this way by Miss Danielle and Miss Sarah.

The Scapegoat

Of course each disaster needs the finger of blame and I’m pointing four fingers and a thumb at you Matt Mckay. Mat McKay at Left back is now becoming a regular dependable liability.

The overused magic trick of converting left wingers into left backs is getting old and tired. How about we stop that and do something novel and use a specialist left back. Shane Lowry and Jason Davidson been in Europe long enough now.

Vote for Change?

Frank Lowy went from Gus Hiddink to Pim Verbeek to Holger Osieck talk about diminishing returns! Lots of talk about Ange Postegoglu and even Graham "we have short memories" Arnold as possible replacements for #Holgerout! but the ideal scenario would be for Australia to get a coach with World Cup experience one that will invigorate the team, there are too many passengers who are on free rides in the squad. 

The Socceroos need a coach that will scare the players into thinking no position is safe. A new coach would surely try new players bring new ideas but most importantly the coaches name would not be Holger Osieck

C'mon Mr Lowy I know you have one more inspirational decision in you, A Nation of Soceroos replica wearing peoples is counting on you!

Aussies Abroad: Month in Review - August 2013

Hello All 

 Compiled by Damian Davies 

A lot to reflect on in August with most of the European leagues kicking off the 2013/14 season.  That also means the big club competitions of UEFA Europa League and Champions League have commenced.  A busy period for transfers with the window just shutting. A very successful few months at international level as we start the countdown to Brazil.

Transfers:-  a huge amount of movement as to be expected at this time of year.  A mixed bag in terms of destinations, but India has become a popular destination and we have seen a few players return to the Swiss market after the Chipperfield era. A few loan deals have also been negotiated.  Plenty more to come as uncontracted players search for a home.  With HAL squads filling up quickly, will be interesting to see who returns to Australian shores.  

Additions/changes to player database:

Panos Armenakas (5 Aug 1998) - transferred to Watford, England

Scott Baginski (28 Feb 1983) - transferred from Saraburi to Kaya FC, Philippines

Michael Baird (1 Aug 1983) - transferred to Universitatea Craiova, Romania

David Carney (30 Nov 1983) - transferred to New York Red Bull, USA

Anthony Carter (31 Aug 1994) - transferred from CFR Cluj II to CFR Cluj, Romania

James Demetriou (14 Aug 1995) - transferred from Sydney Olympic to Nottingham Forest, England

Christian Esposito (23 Jul 1990) - transferred from ACD Valle d'Aosta to FBC Savona, Italy 

Iain Fyfe (3 Apr 1982) - transferred from Adelaide Reds to Mes Kerman, Iran

Apostolis Giannou (25 Jan 1990) - transferred from PAOK to Panionios Athens, Greece

Ryan Go (28 Sep 1995) - transferred to Feyenoord, Netherlands

Max Haubus (8 Mar 1993) - transferred from Atherton LR to Tus Koblenz, Germany

Bradden Inman (10 Dec 1991) - transferred from Newcastle United to Crewe Alexandria, England

Jackson Irvine (7 Mar 1993) - loan from Celtic to Kilmarnock, Scotland

Calvin Lovric (12 Sep 1992) - loan from Parma to Hercules Alicante, Spain

James Meyer (28 May 1986) - transferred from Brisbane Roar to Pune FC, India

Tomislav Mrcela (1 Oct 1990) - transferred to NK Hrvatski Dragovoljac, Croatia

Lucas Neill (9 Mar 1978) - transferred from Sydney FC to Omiya Ardija, Japan

Sean Rooney (1 Mar 1989) - transferred from Blacktown City to Bengaluru, India

Nikita Rukavytsya (22 Jun 1987) - loan from Mainz to FSV Frankfurt, Germany

Sebastian Usai (28 Feb 1990) - transferred from Blackburn to AFC United, Sweden

Dario Vidosic (8 Apr 1987) - transferred from Adelaide Reds to FC Sion, Switzerland

Frane Vladislavic (9 Jan 1994) - loan from Hajduk Split to NK Dugopolje, Croatia

Ivan Vujica (20 Apr 1997) - transferred from NK Lokomotiva Zagreb to GNK Dinamo Zagreb, Croatia

Ryan Williams (28 Oct 1993) - loan from Fulham to Oxford United, England 

Removed from player database: 

Patrick Antelmi (Leeds United) - released, uncontracted

Alex Baird (Dundee) - transferred to Stockport Sports FC, England (non-league)

Jacob Borg (Sliema Wanderers) - appeared for Malta national team, congratulations

Matt Byrne (FK Teleoptik Zemun) - transferred to Olympic FC, Qld

Daniel Caccamo (Kaposvari Rakoczi) - released, uncontracted

Matthew Fletcher (Sheffield Wednesday) - released, uncontracted

Alex Gardikiotis (Blackpool) - transferred to MIFA, UK

Dean Gardikiotis (Blackpool) - transferred to MIFA, UK

Andreas Govas (AEL Kallonis) - released, uncontracted

Liam Jacob (Oldham Athletic) - released, uncontracted

Patrick Kisorbo (Ipswich Town) - released, uncontracted

Billy Konstantinidis (Ethnikos Gazoros) - released, uncontracted

Daniel Leach (Eastbourne Borough) - released, uncontracted

Matthew McKay (Changchun Yatai) - transferred to Brisbane Roar

Brent McGrath (Brondby) - released, uncontracted

Ben McNamara (Nuneaton Town FC) - released, uncontracted

Ante Rozic (Suphanburi FC) - released, uncontracted

Michael Rutherford (Amicale) - transferred to Hurstville City, NSW

Brendon Santalab (Chongqing Lifan) - transferred to Western Sydney Wanderers

Matthew Spiranovic (Al Arabi) - released, uncontracted

Chris Sullivan (Odysseas Kordeliou) - transferred to Para Hills, SA

Christos Tomaras (Paniliakos) - released, uncontracted

Dean Tomeski (Vardar)- released, uncontracted

Chris Vartaci (Kaposvari Rakoczi) - released, uncontracted

Aryn Williams (Burnley) - released, uncontracted

Jamie Young (Aldershot Town) - released, uncontracted

Club Level:-

England (Premiership) – a significant decline in the number of Aussies starting in the Premier League this year.  Mile Jedinak led Crystal Palace through the promotion playoffs and has continued as club captain.  Jedinak playing full games in his clubs first three fixtures.  Mark Schwarzer made headlines during the offseason after winning a deal at high flying Chelsea.  The biggest concern was always going to be the amount of game his plays.  To date, he has been watching Petr Cech from the bench. Brad Jones remains at Liverpool as the number two, and unfortunately may see similar amount of game time as Schwarzer depending on injuries.  Chris Herd is in the mix at AstonVilla but also yet to get off the bench. Pleasing to see Curtis Good make his senior debut for Newcastle in a Cup tie.

England (Championship) – with Scott McDonald making the move south to Millwall, they have arguable become our “Aussie team” with Shane Lowry also there.  For those with good memories, Lucas Neill and Tim Cahill both played over 150 games at The Den.  McDonald is yet to break his scoring duck, but is in the starting eleven. Shane Lowry hasn’t missed a beat, playing every minute of the first five games. Rhys Williams remains as captain at a Middlesbrough team looking to have a stronger season this campaign.  They are yet to suffer defeat and encouragingly, Rhys has also played every minute.  Alex Cisak (Burnley) is the only other Aussie to make an appearance in this league to date, coming off the bench.  Alarmingly, Adam Federici does not appear to be first choice keeper at Reading.

England (League One) – a reasonable representation of Aussies playing senior football.  The form leader to date would be Bailey Wright (Preston North End), playing every minute and scoring once.  James Meredith has started the season strongly at newly promoted Bradford City.  Massimo Luongo celebrated his permanent transfer to Swindon Town with a goal while Bradden Inman has finally got his transfer to Crewe Alexandria so will monitor his progress closely.  Kilkenny (Bristol City) and Wesolowski (Oldham Athletic) are working to cement their starting spots. 

England (League Two) – little Australian interest here beyond Aaron Downes starting each match for TorquayUnited and young Ryan Williams coming off the bench during his loan period at Oxford United. 

Germany (Bundesliga) – limited Aussie starts in the Bundesliga.  Mitch Langerak filled in at goal for Dortmund’s first game, but is now back on the pine.  Robbie Kruse is just starting to see some minutes off the bench at giant Bayer Leverkusen.

Germany (2.Bundesliga) – the prominent Aussie story so far has been the impressive form of Mathew Leckie at FSV Frankfurt. Two goals in his first five games of the campaign. Will be interesting to see how well he works well new loan signing Nikita Rukavytsya. Ben Halloran has not yet featured for Fortuna Dusseldorf, instead turning out for their reserves team.

Netherlands (Eredivisie) – two players to note in terms of their early season performances.  Tommy Oar has been prominent providing assists for FC Utrecht, while seeing Jason Davidson getting a good run in the Heracles Almelo team is also encouraging.  He recently scored his first league goal in five seasons.

Austria (Bundesliga) – James Holland is another player to resume where he left off last season, having started the club’s first seven fixtures.  He has also played a role in qualifying for this seasons Champions League.  

Belgium (Pro League) – the off-season transfer of Mat Ryan to Club Brugge seems to be paying immediate returns for both player and club.  They are undefeated after six games with Mat Ryan the first choice keeper in each of those games.

Scotland (Premier) - Midfielder Dylan McGowan has started the season in the starting eleven at Hearts.  U20 captain Jackson Irvine made the loan move to Kilmarnock and has been rewarded with senior football.  Tom Rogic has been struggling to overcome injury in the first month of the season, but with his club also qualifying for the Champions League, we expect to see his name in the starting eleven shortly at Celtic.

Switzerland (Super League) – Oliver Bozanic has made a fantastic start at his new club, FC Luzern. He has now scored five goals in his seven appearances to be second on the Golden Boot charts.  Dario Vidosic has just jetted in to FC Sion and made his debut immediately.

Croatia (1.HNL) – Adelaide born defender Tomislav Mrcela is finding his feet in the top flight.  Having now made four appearances (three starts) early in the season.  Another youngster unknown to many pundits is Steven Ugarkovic, who has now made his senior debut for NK Osijek while just 18 years of age.

Russia (Premier League) – over the month of August, Luke Wilkshire has worked his way back into the starting line-up at Dinamo Moscow. 

USA (MLS) – two big pieces of news from an Australian perspective, both from the NY Red Bulls. Tim Cahill has returned from injury to scored his eighth goal in 22 starts.  Although his injury is keeping out of the upcoming Socceroos game, can’t say I am too disappointed.  The other is the debut of David Carney after a long period out of the game. Yes he was rusty first up, but would be great to see him return to form before the playoffs in November.

China (Super League) – a huge nine Aussie players starting each week in China.  Hard to pick out highlights given they are all seeing good minutes, but Ryan McGowan continues to receive rave reviews at Shandong.  Erik Paartalu is scoring reasonably frequently for Tian Teda and the form of Daniel McBreen at Shanghai SIPG has one questioning if he will be back for the Mariners campaign.

Japan (J League) – Josh Kennedy has now had a decent injury free run.  This has resulted in him moving to 10 goals for the campaign and a club run that sees Nagoya Grampus well clear of relegation.  Joining him in Japan is Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.  After a few appearances from the bench, he finds himself in the starting eleven.  A position he hopes to hold for the remainder of the season.

Korea (K League Classic) – the Aussie contingent is slowly finding their way back on the pitch.  Alex Wilkinson has been a stand out for the rapidly improving Jeonbuk Motors, while Adrian Madaschi has returned from injury at Jeju United.  Luke Devere is in and out of the Gyeongham FC line up.

Thailand (Premier League) – this league has suddenly become relevant from an Australian perspective.  With Goran Subara (Bangkok Glass) and Kyle Nix (Chiangrai United) starting each week, and recent arrival Rocco Visconte making his debut at Suphanburi FC.

Uruguay – not to be forgotten, is marksman Richard Porta.  Now in his fourth stint at Nacional, two goals in his first three games is a good start.

Injuries:-   the off-season didn’t seem to be long enough for the medical rooms to be cleared.  Kofi Danning (CS Vise) is back in Brisbane recovering from his knee injury. Carl Valeri (ankle) is nearing fitness and hoping to make his Serie A debut shortly.  Rising Ascoli defender has cruelly been struck down, suffering a knee reconstruction during pre-season.  Adam Sarota (Utrecht) continues his knee rehab as he races the clock for a berth to Brazil. Several of the younger brigade are hoping to be back on the pitch in September.

Club Competitions:-

Europe

(UEFA Champions League) – with the qualifying period now complete, both James Holland (Austria Wien) and Tom Rogic (Celtic) have got to the main draw.  Holland appearing during the qualifiers, but not Rogic.

(UEFA Europa League) our Aussies in this competiton (Lustica – Hajduk Split and Mat Ryan – Club Bruge) did not progress beyond the qualifiers.

Asia

(Asian Champions League) – no Aussies remain.

(AFC Cup) – no Aussies remain.

Reserves and Youth:-

Having just commenced their season, will wait for September for a review of our young stars performances.

International level:-  No fixtures for the Socceroos during August, but on the back of the World Cup qualifiers and then the EAFF Cup, we have seen plenty of the team to start forming our squad for Brazil.  Speaking of which, the friendly against Brazil is just days away and the stakes are as high as possible for those players looking to go to the World Cup.  An interesting squad, and certainly nearing our best, with another opportunity against France coming up. 

Socceroo (capped) of the month – a very even month with Leckie, Cahill and Ryan all having good claims, but in terms of importance of his role, this month would have to be Rhys Williams.  Coming off a fairly average season by his standards, he is back the vengeance.  Leading his team, putting in solid match performances, and ultimately being rewarded with a Socceroos recall.

Under (uncapped) the radar – a transfer from HAL Winners Central Coast Mariners to Switzerland would have raised a few eyebrows. Oliver Bozanic has hit the ground running, scored five goals since the start of the season.  His name may well have been considered for Brazil, but given Holger's admission that numerous fringe players are being seriously scouted, perhaps his opportunity will come over the next few months.  Arguably playing in the most competitive Socceroos position, will be an interesting selection dilemma.

Young player (U21) of the month -  a little easier to pick this one, but Jackson Irvine has had a massive few months.  Captaining the U20 WC team, a preseason clash with Steven Gerrard, then a loan deal to Kilmarnock where he has slotted straight into the starting eleven.

Aussies Abroad: Month in Review - July 2013

Hello All 

 Compiled by Damian Davies 

June/July is always an interesting period given the amount of transfer activity, but this season we have had the added privilege of seeing the Socceroos in World Cup qualification, followed closely by the EAFF Cup. Given very little action at club level over this period, I will focus on the summer transfers that have occurred, resuming the full article in August.  With the successful WC2014 qualification for the Socceroos, time also to focus on who will make the touring party twelve months from now.   

 

For a full listing of our Aussies Abroad, please see the attachment.

 

Transfers:-  a massive amount of movement as players chase first team football.  No doubt the lure of a ticket to Brazil is on the mind of many.  In terms of trends, China and the U.A.E. are the hotspots.  With the Hyundai A-League seeing some big names arrive and others go out on loan.  With the transfer window remaining open during August expect plenty of rumours around proposed moves as recently released players look for a new home.

 

Additions/changes to player database:

Aziz Behich (16 Dec 1990) – loan from Bursaspor to Melbourne Heart, Australia

Eddy Bosnar (29 Apr 1980) – transferred from Suwon Bluewings to Guangzhou R&F, China

Dean Bouzanis (2 Oct 1991) – transferred from Oldham Athletic to Aris, Greece

Oliver Bozanic (8 Jan 1989) - transferred from Central Coast Mariners to FC Luzern, Switzerland

Anthony Carter (31 Aug 1994) - loan from Parma to ND Gorica, Slovenia

Billy Celeski (14 Jul 1985) – transferred from Melbourne Victory to Al Shaab, U.A.E.

Alex Cisak (19 May 1989) - transferred from Oldham Athletic to Burnley, England

Simon Colosimo (8 Jan 1979) - transferred from Melbourne Heart to Dempo, India

Albert Edward (19 Nov 1991) - transferred to Des Moines Menance, USA

Ryan Edwards (18 Nov 1993) – loan from Reading FC to Perth Glory, Australia

Joel Griffiths (21 Aug 1979) – transferred from Sydney FC to Qingdao Jonoon, China

Brett Holman (27 Mar 1984) - transferred from Aston Villa to Al Nasr, U.A.E.

Jordan Holmes (1997) - transferred to Bournemouth FC, England

Shane Huke (2 Oct 1985) – transferred from Dover Athletic to Ebbsfleet United, England

Bernie Ibini-Isei (12 Sep 1992) - transferred from Central Coast Mariners to Shanghai SIPG, China

Jack Jones (1997) - transferred to Stevenage FC, England

Kile Kennedy (8 Apr 1989) - transferred to KF Fjardabyggd, Iceland

Josip Konyit (29 Apr 1992) – transferred to CFR Cluj II, Romania

Calvin Lovric (12 Sept 1992) – loan return to Parma, Italy

Sasa Macura (28 Nov 1991) – loan return to MTK Budapest, Hungary

Daniel McBreen (23 Apr 1977) loan from Central Coast Mariners to Shanghai SIPG, China

Scott McDonald (21 Aug 1983) – transferred from Middlesbrough to Millwall, England

Ross Millard (1997) - transferred to Stevenage FC, England

Chris Oikonomidis (4 May 1995) – transferred from Atalanta to Lazio, Italy

Tolgey Ozbey (12 Apr 1986) - transferred from Mohun Bagan to Mohammedan SC, India

Caleb Patterson-Sewell (20 May 1987) - transferred from Vitoria Setubal to Gil Vicente, Portugal

Jovo Pavlovic (16 Aug 1989) – transferred from Mitra Kukar to South China, Hong Kong

Richard Porta (1 Aug 1983) – transferred from Dubai Club to Nacional, Uruguay

Aaron Schneebeli (11 Jan 1993) - transferred from US college to Forest City London, USA
Mark Schwarzer (6 Oct 1972) – transferred from Fulham to Chelsea, England

Mario Simic (28 Dec 1989) – transferred from HNK Zmaj Makarska to NK Inter Zapresic, Croatia

Giannis Simosis (13 Mar 1991) – transferred from AO Kerkyra to Wacker Burghausen, Germany

Robert Stambolziev (26 Oct 1990) – transferred from Olympiakos Nicosia to AEK Kouklion, Cyprus

Stefan Stanojevic (11 Feb 1994) – transferred to Metalac GM, Serbia

Roko Strika (12 Feb 1994) – loan from GNK Dinamo Zagreb to NK Maksimir, Croatia

Milan Susak (29 Jan 1984) - transferred from Sepahan to Al Wasl, U.A.E

Rocco Visconte (22 Apr 1990) – transferred from Western Sydney to Suphanburi, Thailand

Frane Vladislavic (9 Jan 1994) – loan from Hajduk Split to Hrvatski Dragovoljac, Croatia

 

Removed from player database: 

Luke Adams (Derby County) – transferred to Wellington Phoenix

Andrew Barisic (East Bengal _ transferred to Melbourne Knights, Vic

Michael Cavallaro (FC Lustenau) – transferred to Adelaide Cobras, SA

Nick Carle (Baniyas SC) - transferred to Sydney FC

Corey Gameiro (Fulham) - transferred to Sydney FC

Harry Kewell (Al Gharafa) - transferred to Melbourne Heart

Jamie Maclaren (Blackburn) - transferred to Perth Glory

Dane Milovanovic (Pelita Bandung Raya) – transferred to Bentleigh Greens, Vic

Daniel Moss (Greenock Morton) – uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

Dimitri Petratos (Kelantan FC) - transferred to Brisbane Roar

Chris Ross (Vikingur Reykjavik) – uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

James Sammut (Birzebbugu St.Peter’s) – transferred to Inglewood FC, WA

Chris Sharpe (Colorado Rapids) – retired, now coaching (Colorado Rapids)

Francesco Stella (Bellaria Igea) – loan return to Melbourne Victory

Josh Tanner (FCV Dender) – transferred to Rockedale City Suns, NSW

Marc Warren (Airdrie United) -  transferred to Sydney FC

 

The World Cup contenders:-

 The squad from the recent World Cup qualifiers was close to full strength so let’s recap on that.  Schwarzer, Langerak, Galekovic, Neill, Wilkshire, Milligan, Ognenovski, Franjic, North, Cornthwaite, McGowan, Bresciano, McKay, Kruse, Oar, Rogic, Vidosic, Holland, Jedinak, Cahill, Holman, Kennedy, Thompson.  Barring injury I would think no more than 8 places are debatable.  That said, injuries, poor form and bolters will always come into the equation.  We have had a sighter of those fringe Socceroos during the EAFF Cup but who from that squad can step up? In no particular order, and apologies to those not listed.

 

Goalkeepers:

Adam Federici – long regarding as the heir apparent to Mark Schwarzer, the big Reading stopper had a troubled 2012/13 season culminating in his club getting relegated.  Dropping out of the Premier League will be an issue, but a return to fitness, and being restored at the number one could be enough.

Dean Bouzanis – sure, this is a long shot, but the promising custodian could get a gig as the third keeper.  We all remember that assertions were made that he was one of the best junior keepers in the world. He had a breakout season at Oldham, albeit League One, however he has made the big move to the Greek Super League.  If he can cement himself as the number one, will hard not to take notice.

Bolter – Mat Ryan made the off-season move to Europe and has started as first-choice at Club Brugge but needs to continue that form. Will get exposure to Europa League football and may be considered a great investment for the future. For a young keeper, has been well recognised in Australia while at the Mariners

 

Defenders:

Rhys Williams – the Middlesbrough captain has already made 11 appearances for the Socceroos and was forced out of 2010 South Africa due to injury at the eleventh hour.  Known for his versatility, he did not return from injury as strong as he would have liked last season.  As a starting point, he needs to be playing each week and at the level of form seen in the past.  Questionable if a move to the Premier League would help or hinder his chances at this stage.

Shane Lowry – no doubt Australia has had problems at left back since Chipperfield and Carney left the scene.  After switching allegiances to Australia, Lowry is coming off a career best season at Millwall.  He seems to have most the attributes you would want for a defender and has the ability to hold down several roles at the back.  Time to see what he can do an international level in upcoming friendlies.

Matt Spiranovic – also seemingly anointed as a future lynchpin for the Socceroos, things have gone a little off course over the past few years.  Having been a decorated junior in Germany, to a bit player in Japan, and now often starting in Qatar – where to next?  After plenty of injury frustrations, Matt needs to get fit and play some games to put himself in the frame.  If that is done, perhaps a loan deal to either Australia or Europe could help once he has some starts under the belt.

Bolters – Aziz Behich seemingly made an ill-fated transfer to Turkey.  Good management by him/agent has seen him return to Melbourne Heart on loan for the season.  He would certainly have learned a few new tricks while in Europe, now hopefully some first team football and he will be back on the radar.  He has 5 Socceroos caps already.  Ersan Gulum was much publicised a few years ago because of the tug-of-war between Turkey and Australia to secure his services.  Now fast forward a few seasons, he is still not tied, but representing one of the bigger Turkish clubs and holding down centre back and can play on the left.  Has had Europa League experience so a solid start to this campaign could prove interesting.

 

Midfielders:

Chris Herd – has often been close, but injury seems to have always prevented an appearance in the green and gold.  Has now made over 30 Premier League appearances, which is a decent claim to fame.  Fairly versatile but is likely to be fighting it out with the defensive midfielders, which is a position we have several good options. Another player who we need to see at international level, but a strong, injury free start to this new campaign is critical.

Aaron Mooy – after playing his junior football at Bolton and in Scotland, he has certainly made an impact once returning to Australia.  We recently got a good chance to see him in the EAFF Cup.  He certainly brings a X-Factor with his game.  Needs to continue his strong domestic form but is another youngster who may get a seat on the bus as a project player.

Bolter – Adam Sarota.  Currently out with a knee injury, Adam was enjoying a break out year along with featuring for the Socceroos on several occasions. Brings something a little different to the mix and if he returns shortly and returns to his old form, he may sneak in to the squad.

 

Forwards:

Harry Kewell – arguably our greatest ever Socceroo, no doubting his pedigree.  The problem is his age and lack of first team football.  Having signed with Melbourne Heart, this is surely an audition for him.  A starting role with the national team seems too far away for him, but an impact player off the bench has worked wonders before.  Is that wishful thinking that those days are not beyond him?

Mat Leckie – the former Adelaide marksman has had his share of up’s and down’s while in Germany.  Ten goals in 50 appearances over 3 years tells that story.  Spending reasonable periods in the medical rooms and rotating on and off the bench.  He is back starting and scoring, can he keep that up and start to make a real impact to push his case forward.

Scott McDonald – someone who seems never to have had real problems scoring at club level throughout a ten year career, he has had chances but not made a huge impact at international level.  More times than not, the formation and style of play of the Socceroos hasn’t suited him, which may again prove to be a barrier.  He has just transferred to Millwall, not sure if that advances his claims or not.  He would have to be an outside chance of going to his first World Cup.

Bolter - Mitchell Duke.  Having only made his senior debut last season at the Mariners, and then representing Australia at the EAFF Cup, certainly a fairy tale start to his career.  Mitch certainly has the ability but maybe not the experience.  He has done his chances no harm of late, but a solid domestic season will help his cause even further.

 

A bit more experimenting over the next few months, but I imagine at least twenty of our World Cup squad will be locked in by early 2014.  Plenty of names who I have not mentioned here, and that is the beauty of the next six months.  We are bound to be both surprised and disappointed by some of our Top 50 national players.  Best wishes to all the players that so nobly fly the Australian flag around the world.