Sydney FC full-back Joel King earns Socceroos recall for World Cup qualifiers

Sydney FC’s Joel King has received a call-up to the Socceroos squad, stepping in for the injured Jordan Bos and Riley McGree. King, 23, joins Graham Arnold’s team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lebanon following Australia’s 2-0 victory over the same opponent on Thursday.

During the match with Lebanon, both Bos and McGree suffered first-half injuries, prompting their return to their respective clubs for further assessment. In the meantime, King’s inclusion in the squad adds depth to Arnold’s options, especially with Craig Goodwin’s recovery from a virus.

With the focus now on the upcoming clash with Lebanon at GIO Stadium in Canberra, King’s presence alongside other A-League talents like Nisbet, Borrello, Taggart, and Fornaroli provides additional firepower for the Socceroos. Unfortunately, Keanu Baccus will miss the match due to suspension after receiving his second yellow card of the qualifiers.

Despite the absence of Baccus, Australia boasts a strong position in Group I of AFC World Cup qualifying with nine points from three games. Palestine follows in second place with four points, while Lebanon and Bangladesh trail behind with two and one point, respectively.

Looking ahead to the match in Canberra, all eyes will be on the Socceroos as they aim to maintain their impressive run in the qualifiers. The upcoming fixture promises an exciting battle between Lebanon and the Socceroos at GIO Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm AEDT and coverage available on 10 Bold, 10 Play, and Paramount+.

King’s return to the national team setup marks a significant moment for the talented full-back, as he aims to make an impact in the crucial World Cup qualifier. With Arnold’s squad bolstered by King’s presence and the resurgence of key players, the Socceroos are well-positioned to secure another important victory in their campaign.

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.