AEK Larnaca striker Apostolos Giannou joined up with the Australia squad in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday as a late addition to their Asian Cup squad.
The 28-year-old replaces Martin Boyle who withdrew due to a knee injury ahead of Australia’s tournament opener with Jordan in Al Ain on Sunday.
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“We have spoken consistently about our player pool getting deeper and to add Apo to our attacking options in spite of the unfortunate news for Martin [Boyle] is fantastic,” Australian coach Graham Arnold told the federation homepage.
“Apo offers us something a little bit different in attack — he is a hardworking player who can press and has a sharp eye for goal.”
Giannou has six Australian caps and scored his first international goal in an October friendly against Kuwait.
“I will be doing everything that I can to impress in training and perform in matches here in the UAE,” said Giannou.
“We have a great squad with a great culture and together I believe we will achieve our goals at the tournament.”
Defending champions Australia also meet Syria and Palestine in Group B.(dpa/NAN)
Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/01/australia-call-up-giannou-to-replace-injured-boyle/
