Socceroos coach Graham Arnold suggests that the recent managerial change at Leicester City could potentially benefit defender Harry Souttar, allowing him to stay at the Premier League club. Souttar had limited playing time last season, making only four appearances and accumulating a mere 188 minutes on the field. This lack of game time led to his desire to leave the club in January, but he was unable to secure a move. Despite his struggles at Leicester, Arnold consistently selected Souttar for the national team, recognizing his defensive abilities and leadership potential. However, Arnold emphasized the importance of Souttar gaining more playing time at the club level. Initially, a departure from Leicester seemed likely for Souttar, especially if the previous manager, Enzo Maresca, had remained in charge. Nevertheless, Arnold acknowledged that the managerial change could complicate Souttar’s future plans. The 25-year-old defender may still choose to leave or try to impress the new manager. Arnold has already had a conversation with Souttar regarding his situation and expressed that the uncertainty caused by the managerial change might have made it more challenging for him to make a decision. Arnold hopes that Souttar will perform well in the upcoming matches and continue to showcase his abilities. However, he emphasized the importance of Souttar resolving his club career upon returning to the UK after the national team camp. Arnold believes that this is a crucial period in Souttar’s playing career, as he needs to gain more experience, mature as a player, and strengthen himself physically. The upcoming year holds significant importance for Souttar’s development and progress in the sport.
Arnold is faced with a welcome headache when it comes to deciding which of his four centre-backs to field, as each of them brings their own strengths to the team. Cameron Burgess is set to join Ipswich Town in the Premier League, Alessandro Circati recently achieved promotion to Serie A with Parma, and Kye Rowles has been a reliable defender for Hearts. Arnold plans to give all four players a chance to start in the upcoming games, with two of them featuring in each game. He is eager to see how they perform on the pitch.
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