Sydney FC blocks teenage winger from Under-17 World Cup

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 06:32 · Archive

Sydney FC has refused to release 17-year-old winger Akol Akon to play for Australia at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, citing squad depth concerns. Akon was set to be a key player in Australia's squad for the tournament running from 19 November to 13 December, but Sydney have no obligation to release him and have declined to do so.

The club argues its squad is too thin to lose Akon while he misses three A-League games during a period of current injuries. Sydney has already allowed eight players to the tournament, though only two – striker Zach Harrison and defender Ethan Dyer – are part of the club's A-League squad.

Sydney coach Patrick Kisnorbo and sporting director Alex Baumjohann believe Akon, who has signed with American Major League Soccer club Colorado Rapids ahead of leaving at the end of the season, will develop better by playing A-League matches against older opponents than competing at under-17 level. Football Australia has begrudgingly accepted the decision, as has Akon himself, though Football Australia is reported to be furious with Sydney's stance.

How it is being reported

• Sydney FC defends controversial call to stop Akol Akon playing at the FIFA Under-17 World CupSydney FC has denied its own teenage star the chance to play at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup for Australia.The West Australian · 20 Oct, 06:20
• Sydney FC defends controversial call to stop Akol Akon playing at the FIFA Under-17 World CupSydney FC has denied its own teenage star the chance to play at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup for Australia.Perth Now · 20 Oct, 06:20

In this story: Sydney FC · Akol Akon · Australia · Qatar · Football Australia · Patrick Kisnorbo · Colorado Rapids · Western Sydney Wanderers

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