Crucial Role of 'Rock-eroo' Souttar in Asian Cup Journey

 Key to Advancing in the Asian Cup: Dependable Souttar

Harry Souttar and Graham Arnold both acknowledge that the towering Socceroo's current situation of not playing regularly for his club can't be ignored forever. However, the key center-back and his loyal coach are setting aside this distraction as they aim for success in the Asian Cup.

Souttar, despite limited playing time at Leicester City in England's second tier, continues to excel in leading Australia's defense during international matches. He remains focused on the upcoming game against Indonesia in the round-of-16 at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium on Sunday.

Expressing his thoughts, Souttar mentioned, "Obviously, I would have liked to play more football before I came. But I had that situation at the World Cup where I only played one first-team game and a couple of youth-team games, so I know I can do it."

He added, "I've played a few games this season along with the Australia games so it wasn't like I hadn't played any football. I've been training for ages, I've kept myself in really good condition. The manager knows that and he knows what I can do. So that trust is there. I know obviously to continue to be in the national team, I've got to be playing club football - but we'll cross that bridge when it comes."

For coach Arnold, playing Souttar in every game is crucial to maintain his form and provide height and structure in defense. Souttar has chosen not to engage in discussions about his club future while in Qatar, recognizing that the decision time will come later.

Arnold emphasized the importance of addressing Souttar's club career soon, stating, "It's getting time for him to do something about his club career because I thought when he first came into camp, he was a little bit down. But this has picked him up again, it's got him going again."

Souttar, known for his calm and assured demeanor, prefers to lead through actions rather than words, stating, "You can't pretend to be someone you're not because people see straight through it." His teammates appreciate his quiet leadership style.

Midfielder Jackson Irvine commented, "He's not the most vocal I've played with but he has a presence. There's players you play with throughout your career that carry this - and it's not just because of his size."

Arnold regards Souttar as "crucially important" both on and off the field. He envisions Souttar becoming a future captain of the Socceroos and highlights his positive impact on the team.

"He's such a fantastic person. I think one day he will end up a captain of the Socceroos. I've never seen so many players in tears as when he did his ACL against Saudi Arabia and in the dressing room after the game - because of him as a person, first and foremost," Arnold said. "His love for playing for Australia is huge and he's a rock. He's the rock of the Socceroos."

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