In a disheartening blow to both the Australian national team and his club, Middlesbrough, Riley McGree’s footballing journey for the 2023-24 season has come to an abrupt halt. The dynamic midfielder’s absence is set to be prolonged after sustaining a foot injury during the Socceroos’ triumphant encounter against Lebanon last month. McGree’s injury announcement comes as a part of a mixed bag of news concerning the Australian squad’s health post the recent international fixtures.
The unfortunate incident unfolded during the Socceroos’ convincing 2-0 victory over Lebanon at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on March 21st. Although McGree was absent in the subsequent match against the same opponent in Canberra last Tuesday, the severity of his injury became apparent as he departed the national team’s camp prematurely to rejoin Middlesbrough. Michael Carrick, Middlesbrough’s coach, disclosed the grim prognosis, confirming McGree’s necessity for surgery and his subsequent unavailability for the remainder of the campaign.
McGree isn’t the sole casualty from the fixtures against Lebanon, as fellow Socceroo Jordy Bos faces a spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury sustained during the same games. Bos, who plies his trade in Belgium, is anticipated to be out of action for approximately six weeks, adding to the setbacks suffered by the Australian contingent.
However, amidst the gloom, there is a glimmer of hope. Ajdin Hrustic, the creative midfielder who also picked up an injury in the encounter against Lebanon, received relatively positive news regarding his fitness. Despite being forced off during Australia’s 5-0 victory with an ankle issue, Hrustic managed to return to action for his club, Heracles, in their recent fixture against FC Twente. The Dutch-based player’s swift recovery signifies a silver lining amid the injury woes haunting the Socceroos.
Looking ahead, despite the setbacks, the Australian national team remains in a favorable position in their World Cup qualifying campaign. With their progression to the Asian Football Confederation’s third round secured, the upcoming June qualifiers against Bangladesh and Palestine hold significance beyond mere points. Socceroos coach Graham Arnold is steadfast in his ambition for his side to secure victories in both fixtures, aiming to bolster Australia’s chances of being seeded in pot one for the third-round draw.
As Riley McGree and his compatriots navigate the challenges of rehabilitation and recovery, the Australian football community stands united in support, hopeful for a swift return to action for their cherished stars.
