Sydney FC duo Terry Antonis and Bernie Ibini have today been announced as part of Socceroos Head Coach Ange Postecoglou’s provisional squad for the upcoming 2015 AFC Asian Cup.
Ibini and Antonis have both become mainstays of Graham Arnold’s Sky Blues squad during the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 season and the pair will be looking to carry their good form over to the international stage.
Antonis said he was excited to be called up to the provisional squad and is confident he can secure a place in the team with no setbacks.
“I’ve had a bit of bad luck regarding going into the camps but this time nothing will happen,” Antonis joked.
“I’m happy and excited to be called up. I’ve just been worried about playing I haven’t been focussing too much on being selected but at the moment I’m very excited.
“Fingers crossed I can secure a spot in the final squad. I think everyone in the camp would love to be there but it’s up to Ange on who he picks.”
Ibini, who earned his first two Socceroos caps in October, is likewise excited about the upcoming tournament as he said there will be a gulf in class between the friendly matches he’s participated in and the upcoming major continental tournament.
“I’m very honoured, I can’t wait to play,” Ibini said.
“It’s not the final squad but I’ll be trying my best to play my best and see what happens from there.
“It’s a massive step up from friendly matches to the Asian Cup. If I was to make the final squad it’d be a massive achievement for myself.
“International football is a step up in general and for me to be involved in this camp is great.
“I just want it to help me become a better player, continue to learn and grow and take on this experience.”
The final 23-man squad for the AFC Asian Cup will be submitted by 30 December with the players heading into camp after the round 12 Hyundai A-League matches between 26 and 28 December.
*Bernie Ibini is sponsored by proud Player Partner Farmer Joe’s Chickens.
*Terry Antonis is sponsored by proud Player Partner Arthur Galan AG.
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