Sydney FC and Football Australia today confirmed that Sydney FC Academy graduate Akol Akon will be made available for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, should he be selected in the Joeys squad.
Sydney FC has worked closely with Football Australia and Joeys head coach Carl Veart over the past week to find a solution that allows Akol to take part, while managing the club’s squad depth during the A-League Men season.
Sydney FC already has seven players away with the Junior Matildas at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and expects several young men, including Akol, to be involved in the men’s tournament.
Both organisations share the same commitment: developing young Australian players in the best possible way, for their own futures and for the future of the game in this country.
Sebastian Gray, Sydney FC Executive Vice Chairman: “Our goal has always been to give our young players every opportunity to represent their country. As the biggest club in Australia, we see developing the next generation of Socceroos and Matildas as a responsibility to the national game, and one we take seriously.
“There are times, like this one, when we have to balance that with our own squad and our ambition to win trophies for Sydney FC. We’ve worked hard alongside Football Australia to find the right solution, and we’re delighted Akol will have this opportunity if selected.
“Having seven of our young women at the U-17 Women’s World Cup, and hopefully several of our young men at the men’s tournament, shows the strength of our Academy and the partnership we have with Football Australia. We’ll keep working together on this.”
Heather Garriock, Football Australia Executive Director of Football: “We welcome Sydney FC’s decision and thank Sebastian Gray, Patrick Kisnorbo and the club for the work they’ve done to find a solution that allows Akol Akon to be considered for the Joeys’ squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
“Sydney FC has a proud record of producing national team players, and having a strong contingent with the Junior Matildas at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup speaks for itself.
“Our position has always been that representing Australia at a FIFA World Cup is a special experience that benefits the player, their club and Australian football.
“We’re pleased Akol may now have that opportunity, and we’ll keep working closely with Sydney FC and all clubs to give our best young players every chance to represent their country.”
