Hibs star Martin Boyle 'can play a big role' for Australia at Copa America

Martin Boyle could face Lionel Messi in the competition

Australian coach Graham Arnold believes Hibs’ Martin Boyle is ready to play his part in what he describes as “a huge year” for the Socceroos.

The Aussies have been invited to this summer’s Copa America for the first time which means the Easter Road ace could come face-to-face with the likes of Argentina

legend Lionel Messi.

Boyle suffered the heartbreak of missing out on Australia’s bid to retain the Asian Cup this time last year, suffering the first of two serious knee injuries which both required surgery.

But the 26-year-old returned to the international fold as Arnold’s new-look squad maintained their 100 per cent record in World Cup qualifying with a win over Jordan in November, and with further matches in that campaign and the Copa America – and games against Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay – to come, the head coach is hoping for great things.

Pointing out that as far as he was concerned 2019 was a year of transition as he created more depth to the Aussies squad, he said: “I’ve felt with the World Cup qualifiers so far we’ve been doing well, but there’s a lot more that I can expect from this team, there’s a lot more these players can give.

“The addition of Martin Boyle and (Harry) Souttar who were not part of the Socceroos in the Asian Cup and the loss of Aaron Mooy – and you can see what he’s doing now (for Brighton) – it’s a very promising future ahead.

“It’s a huge year for Australian football. In terms of national teams, the Copa American, and the life experience for a lot of those players who have never played in South America to play against different styles and a different way is a great opportunity for all.

“I just see it as a great life experience for everyone. Of course we’re going to go there and give it a great shot, I expect to go there and win a few games.

“The top four in each group (of six) go through to the quarter-finals, so that’s our first goal and I can’t see why we can’t.

“On the playing side of it, it’s a great opportunity to see players and see how they perform, and be ready for that next phase of World Cup qualifiers.”