Sydney FC reverses ban on Akol Akon for Under-17 World Cup

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 01:20 · Archive

Sydney FC has reversed its decision to block teenage winger Akol Akon from representing Australia at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar next month. The club initially prevented the youngster from participating, which drew criticism from Australia's football community.

A-League clubs are no longer required to release players for national duty at youth level, so Sydney FC was within its rights to block Akon. However, after working closely with Football Australia and national under-17 coach Carl Veart, the Sky Blues changed their decision.

Sydney FC executive vice-chairman Sebastian Gray said the club had 'always been' committed to giving young players opportunities 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,' he 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.'

Football Australia's executive director of football Heather Garriock welcomed the decision. Akon will be considered for the squad if he is selected.

Sydney FC reverses ban on Akol Akon for Under-17 World Cup — Image: WAtoday

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How it is being reported

‘Killing the game’: Kisnorbo unloads over Akon’s U17 World Cup controversyThe Sydney FC coach has launched a stinging attack on critics of the A-League club’s controversial decision not to release Akol Akon for next month’s tournament.WAtoday · 23 Oct, 02:51
Akol Akon cleared for FIFA Under-17 World Cup after Sydney FC reverses banSydney FC has reversed its decision to block teenage winger Akol Akon from representing Australia at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 00:44
Akol Akon cleared for FIFA Under-17 World Cup after Sydney FC reverses banSydney FC has reversed its decision to block teenage winger Akol Akon from representing Australia at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 00:44

In this story: Akol Akon · Sydney FC · Football Australia · Carl Veart · Sebastian Gray · Heather Garriock · Qatar · Australia

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