Cahill key to Arzani's Socceroos selection hopes

Boom rookie Daniel Arzani will rely on one of his Socceroos idols for guidance as he attempts to break into Bert van Marwijk’s 23-man FIFA World Cup squad.

Arzarni took to the training pitch in Socceroos colours for the first time today - during Australia’s pre-World Cup camp in Belek, Turkey - and revealed his former Melbourne City teammate Tim Cahill has helped him adapt to life with the national team.

The 19-year-old struck up a strong relationship with the Socceroos great during Cahill’s time in the A-League, with Australia’s record goal-scorer proving to be a valuable ally for the rising star.

“Coming into camp it was a bit frightening at first because I don't actually know anyone," Arzani said.

"But I've got Timmy. He's a good friend of mine. He's very helpful."

The pair are set to share the spotlight in the lead up to the World Cup but Arzarni knows he still has plenty of work to do to ensure he makes the final cut for Russia.

Van Marwijk will name his final squad for the tournament on June 3 with the battle to make the team set to heat up as 23 outfielders fight for 20 available spots.

"I just wanted to get the first session out of the way and see where I'm at," he said.

"I just got to prove I'm invaluable to the team. I think that will come by doing my own thing and hopefully doing well.

"Coming into national team camp as such a young player is kind of like starting over again.

"I've got to prove my worth and maybe more so than anyone else.

"Since I was young I always dreamed of playing for Australia, playing for the Socceroos.

"To think that could happen in the next couple of weeks could be amazing."


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2 min read
Published 21 May 2018 1:41pm
By Nick Houghton

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