Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
Sydney FC teenage sensation Akon Akon can play for Australia at the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup after the Sky Blues had a change of heart after initially preventing the winger from taking part in the tournament.
The Sky Blues had earnt the wrath of most of Australia’s football community by blocking Akon from taking part in the tournament, which starts next month in Qatar.
The Sydneysiders were within their rights to stop the youngster from playing in the tournament, with A-League clubs no longer required to release players for national duty at youth level.
However, after “working closely” with Football Australia and national under-17 coach Carl Veart, the Sky Blues have changed their mind about Akon’s World Cup availability.
Sydney FC executive vice-chairman Sebastian Gray said it had “always been” the Sky Blues’ “goal” to give the club’s “young players every opportunity to represent their country”.
“As the biggest club in Australia, we see developing the next generation of Socceroos and Matildas as a responsibility to the national game and one we take seriously,” Grey said.
“There are times, like this one, when we have to balance that with our own squad and our ambition to win trophies for Sydney FC.
“We’ve worked hard alongside Football Australia to find the right solution, and we’re delighted Akol will have this opportunity if selected.
“We’ll keep working together on this.”
FA executive director of football Heather Garriock said: “We welcome Sydney FC’s decision and thank Sebastian Gray, Patrick Kisnorbo and the club for the work they’ve done to find a solution that allows Akol Akon to be considered for the Joeys’ squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
“Our position has always been that representing Australia at a FIFA World Cup is a special experience that benefits the player, their club and Australian football.
“We’re pleased Akol may now have that opportunity, and we’ll keep working closely with Sydney FC and all clubs to give our best young players every chance to represent their country.”
