Popovic turns to Foxe, Okon as Socceroos assistants
New Socceroos coach Tony Popovic has turned to his trusted former long-term sidekick Hayden Foxe and ex-teammate Paul Okon as his assistants amid an overhaul of Australia’s coaching staff.
A clear-out had been on the cards after Popovic replaced the departed Graham Arnold last week.
Arnold’s senior assistant Rene Meulensteen followed him out the door while Luke Wilkshire may continue at Football Australia, but outside the Socceroos program.
Popovic has turned to two familiar faces as his assistants ahead of his first World Cup qualifiers at the helm, against China in Adelaide on October 10 then Japan in Saitama five days later.
Former Socceroo Foxe worked with Popovic as his senior assistant at Western Sydney Wanderers and Perth Glory, before later working under John Aloisi at Western United.
The pair will resume a partnership that delivered the 2014 Asian Champions League title, along with A-League premierships.
Former Socceroo Okon was previously involved in the Young Socceroos and Olyroos.
He had a tough stint as head coach at Central Coast in 2016-2018 and was most recently assistant manager at Belgium’s Club Brugge KV.
Okon’s son, Paul Okon-Engstler, is in the Olyroos.
Frank Juric will replace John Crawley, Arnold’s long-time offsider, as goalkeeping coach.
Capped Socceroo Juric, 50, started at Melbourne Knights, then had a lengthy stint in Germany before finishing his career at Perth Glory and moving into coaching.
The change in goalkeeping coach could potentially open the door for Mitch Langerak to resume his international career, after he was contentiously left out of the 2022 World Cup squad.
FA confirmed Popovic has also brought on board analyst Michael Mantikos, who he worked with at Melbourne Victory, while Julie Meek has been appointed team dietitian.
“I am excited to welcome these talented individuals to our team of coaching and support staff,” Popovic said in a statement.
“Each of them brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will be instrumental in our journey ahead.
“Together, we will work tirelessly to develop a dynamic and competitive Socceroos squad that embodies the spirit of Australian football.
“Our goal is to not only achieve success on the pitch but to also foster an environment where every player can thrive and reach their full potential.”
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