Australia boss buoyed by Martin Boyle and Jackson Irvine displays for Hibs ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers

Jackson Irvine and Martin Boyle celebrate after combining for a goal against Dundee United in January

The Socceroos haven’t played an international game since 2019 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and as such, their four 2022 World Cup qualifiers against Nepal, Jordan, Kuwait, and Chinese Taipei are likely to be played in a neutral venue with Qatar mooted as a potential hub for the fixtures.

With four games in quick succession, Arnold needs a large pool of players, and while the squad is yet to be announced, it looks promising for the Hibs duo.

"It's great the games will be back in June. We've received information from the AFC that the games must go ahead because we have to finish the second phase of the qualifiers. So we're looking forward to getting back together and getting on with it,” Arnold said.

Boyle (centre) and Irvine (far right) have previously played together for the Socceroos

"I'm thinking of bringing 34 players into camp, it's something you need a bigger number of players for and it's giving players an opportunity as well.

"I just see this phase as so important for the development of the Socceroos and to create more depth in the squad.

"Martin Boyle is scoring goals in Scotland and Jackson Irvine is giving him some assists; Tom Rogic is obviously getting game time at Celtic [as well].

"It all spells great for the Socceroos. The most important thing for me is they're all getting minutes, getting game time and going to come into camp fit and ready to go."

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