Sydney FC midfielder Hagi Gligor will make the step up to international football next year after being named in the 23-man squad to take part in the AFC U-22 Championships in Oman, from the 11-26th of January 2014.

Sydney FC midfielder Hagi Gligor will make the step up to international football next year after being named in the 23-man squad to take part in the AFC U-22 Championships in Oman, from the 11-26th of January 2014.

18 year old Gligor will compete alongside 15 Hyundai A-League based players as well as seven overseas players who were selected in Aurelio Vidmar-s squad.

“We are excited with the squad we have put together,” said Vidmar.

“We-ve put together a good mix of boys making an impact in the Hyundai A-League and also playing overseas and it will be good to get them together in a string group at what will be a good competition.”

Gligor was delighted at being selected and says he cannot wait for the tournament to kick off, with Australia-s first game against Kuwait on Sunday the 12th of January.

“I-m honoured to be selected,” he said.

“To be considered good enough for the squad is amazing. It-s a great team.

“I can-t wait for the tournament to start now and hopefully I-m there by the time Rio [2016 Olympics] comes around.

“It-s going to be a tough comp, there are some difficult teams there but I-m confident we-ll do well.”

Australia-s remaining two group games against Iran and Japan will be played on the 14th and 16th of January respectively.

All three games kick off at midnight AEDT in a competition that will help Vidmar shape his team for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.

SYDNEY FC SET TO ROAR – Make sure you don’t miss any of the action in a Boxing Day smash hit when Sydney FC take on Hyundai A-League leaders Brisbane Roar at Allianz Stadium.

*Subject to Ticketek booking fee.