Sydney FC left back Joel King could be thrown into the deep end for his international debut after first-choice option Aziz Behich was ruled out of the Socceroos' crucial World Cup qualifier with Vietnam.
Behich was due to fly into Melbourne for Thursday night's game at AAMI Park but a snow blizzard prevented the 31-year-old from leaving Turkey, where he plays for Girensunspor.
Socceroos assistant Rene Meulensteen, who is standing in for Graham Arnold after the head coach tested positive for COVID-19, said King, 21, had earned the right to win his debut cap if called upon.
"It is a shame because he (Behich) was very keen to play for the Socceroos," Meulensteen said.
"We've got plenty of cover to deal with that so it's just another challenge we've got to face.
"It's a possibility (King will debut). We bring all the players in so we are covered in every position.
"The good thing is some players are so versatile that they can cover for more than one position.
"Joel has come in and deserves the right to be selected. He's played a lot of important games and he's done well, so if we decide to give Joel his debut we are confident he's ready for it."
Meulensteen hopes Behich will be available for next Wednesday's (AEDT) clash with Oman in Muscat which along with the Vietnam game, are critical for Australia's hopes of automatic qualification for Qatar.
There is no margin for error over the next week given Australia, who currently occupy the repechage place in third, are a point behind Japan and five off runaway leaders Saudi Arabia and must play both sides in the final block of qualifiers.
"The players are aware of that themselves," Meulensteen admitted.
"We've been together for three years, it's all about our mental attitude and what we take to the pitch.
"There's enormous trust between the players and staff.
"We always have a positive approach, there's no point in speculating but we must reassure ourselves what we are here for and what we have to do."
Meulensteen said the Socceroos' preparations hadn't been affected by Arnold's absence but that the pair would be in contact during the game while Arnold watched from isolation.
Australian Associated Press
