Football journalist Daniel Garb has identified a trio of players who believes can lead Australia to Asian Cup glory.
If the Socceroos are to get past the likes of South Korea, Japan and Iran in the AFC tournament then these players must step up.
Garb feels that Craig Goodwin can really “take charge” of Graham Arnold’s outfit in Qatar.
“I think Craig Goodwin is one who can really stand out in this tournament,” Garb said on SEN Mornings.
“He scored in the World Cup against France, we all remember that. He was unbelievable in the A-League last season winning the Johnny Warren Medal. He’s gone to Saudi Arabia for huge coin.
“He’s set to take charge at this Asian Cup down the left flank. He’s one I’d be looking for.”
Garb also believes Scottish-born attacker Martin Boyle can show the football world why he is so highly regarded down under.
“The same with Martin Boyle down the right,” he added.
“He’s threatened to be a superstar player for Australia but he’s always got injured at key moments, be it before the World Cup, be it before the last Asian Cup. He just seems to have injuries that disrupt him when he’s about to get going for the Socceroos.
“Hopefully the injuries haven’t taken too much of a toll on him and he can have a big tournament.”
The third piece of the puzzle in attack is Mitch Duke who played a pivotal role for the Socceroos at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“The one that I’m looking out for to have a big tournament and elevate his status is actually Mitch Duke,” Garb said further.
“He started all three games for Australia at the last World Cup and led the line with aplomb. He scored that wonderful header against Tunisia to lead Australia to victory in the second group stage game.
“In Asia the taller, more physical strikers can quite often have an impact when Australia can get on top physically. Getting it into Mitch Duke on some set pieces could potentially have an impact.
“I think we take him for granted a little bit. He’s our number one striker right now. He’s not Mark Viduka or Tim Cahill, he might not score regularly or play in the same kind of leagues, but he’s done a really good job for Australia when called upon.
“He might have a decent tournament leading the line.”
The Socceroos kick off their Asian Cup campaign against India in Al Rayyan on Saturday night (10:30pm AEDT).
