Socceroos so special for Arnold

SOCCEROOS coach Graham Arnold senses something special is brewing as competition intensifies for spots in his Asian Cup squad.

Arnold gave debuts to fullback Rhyan Grant and midfielder James Jeggo in Tuesday night’s 3- 0 win over in Sydney over a Lebanon side ranked 40 places below Australia in 82nd spot. He made seven changes to his starting side from Saturday’s 1- 1 draw with South Korea.

Scottish- born winger Martin Boyle scored two goals and set up the third for substitute Mathew Leckie, as Australia cruised to an easy win.

Arnold said Australia would probably have one more game in Dubai on December 30 or 31 before the Asian Cup starts in January in the United Arab Emirates. The Socceroos’ progress in his three matches in charge and their playing depth has given Arnold cause for optimism.

“The culture is fantastic and when you have competition for places, it makes the environment even healthier,” he said. “I have this strong belief something special is coming.”

Arnold believes he has options to fill the vacancy left in the centre of midfield after former captain Mile Jedinak retired from international duty following this year’s World Cup.

Mustafa Amini, Jeggo and Jackson Irvine put in good shifts in Sydney, with Arnold pointing out Massimo Luongo and Aaron Mooy could also play there.