Tug of war emerges over teen sensation

THE Olyroos look set to call up Al Hassan Toure for a November tournament, sparking an international tug of war for the breakout striking sensation.

Toure, 19, has emerged as Australia’s most exciting prospect this season, claiming Adelaide United’s No.1 striking position while winning the Mark Viduka medal for a dominant FFA Cup final display last week.

The Guinea-born product grew up in Adelaide but has attracted interest from Liberia, where his parents come from, with coach Peter Butler contacting Adelaide United with a view to calling him up to the national team.

Graham Arnold, who is in charge of both the Socceroos and Olyroos, is cautious about prematurely rushing Toure into the senior set up, but conscious of the international interest in the teen.

Toure announced himself in the FFA Cup final, which was beamed into more than 15 countries, scoring a sublime opener, providing a second assist and playing a key role in the third, as he was overcome with emotion.

After the FFA Cup final, which was beamed to more than 15 countries, Toure was draped in a Liberian flag during the celebrations.

A Football Federation Australia spokesman confirmed Toure is wanted by Australia, although there is conjecture as to whether they have applied for and received a FIFA clearance — required as he was born abroad to non-Australian parents. “Al Hassan Toure is on the Australian national team radar,’’ the spokesman said.