Leckie and Italiano Depart Socceroos World Cup Squad Due to Injury

The Australian Socceroos face a blow heading into the World Cup knockout stages with the departure of veteran winger Matthew Leckie and right-back Jacob Italiano due to injuries. Leckie sustained a leg injury during the loss to the USA, while Italiano suffered a groin issue in training before the draw with Paraguay. Both players have returned to their respective clubs for rehabilitation, leaving the squad with just 24 players.

This situation presents a challenge for coach Tony Popovic, who now has fewer options, especially in wide attacking positions. The absence of Italiano, in particular, necessitated tactical shifts during the Paraguay match, with regular left-back Jordy Bos moving to the right flank and Aziz Behich starting on the left.

“

I'm gutted for him. I saw first-hand this year what he had to do to get back on that pitch for us at Melbourne City and then what he did in Sarasota. He left no stone unturned and it's a credit to him, it's not easy, not just physically but also mentally at his age. We're all gutted for him because we want him to stick around because we know what he can give us as a team and even when he's not playing.

Teammate Aziz Behich expressed disappointment for Leckie, highlighting the winger's dedication to recovering from a previous injury to be part of the squad. "I'm gutted for him," Behich said. "We're all gutted for him because we want him to stick around because we know what he can give us as a team and even when he's not playing." Behich also acknowledged the need for players to step up, stating, "Obviously, two soldiers down, but we've got a lot of boys that can cover depth and position."

The Socceroos will continue their preparations in Oakland until July 1 before relocating to Dallas for their round-of-32 clash on July 3. The team aims to maintain a positive mindset despite the setbacks, relying on the depth of the squad to compensate for the missing players.

“

(Italiano) worked hard to get himself in this position and I thought he did really well in the games that he played as well. For myself, obviously I came here to play. I put myself in this position as well, to be involved in my third World Cup. I've been biding my time. I've been working hard at training every day and just waiting for my opportunity. I think we're in a good headspace. Obviously, two soldiers down, but we've got a lot of boys that can cover depth and position.