The Socceroos squad: Who steps up in defensive crisis?
- Ross Papadakis
- Mar 11
- 6 min read
With key defenders sidelined, the Socceroos urgently need reinforcements ahead of the upcoming international window. Cameron Burgess and Kye Rowles remain fit and have been mainstays since Tony Popovic took charge, making their inclusions feel like a given. But beyond them, who else is in contention? Front Page Football's Ross Papadakis rounds up seven centre-backs who could be in the mix for selection for the games against Indonesia and China.
Kai Trewin (centre) has been mentioned as an option for the Socceroos after having an excellent A-League Men season thus far with Melbourne City. (Image: Harley Appezzato)
Milos Degenek (FK Backa Topola, Serbia)
A familiar face in the Socceroos setup, Miloš Degenek has long been a trusted defensive option for Australia, featuring at multiple major tournaments.
Despite only playing one competitive match before the last international window, he was still selected in Tony Popovic's squad—though he remained on the bench for both matches.
However, since then, Degenek has secured a move to Serbian SuperLiga side FK Bačka Topola, where he has quickly established himself as a key figure. The 29-year-old has started eight games for his new club, including UEFA Conference League fixtures, showing he's back to full match fitness.
While we expect Degenek to be selected, given his experience, his current club form will be a key factor in whether he starts in the backline.
With the Socceroos dealing with multiple defensive injuries, his versatility —being able to play both centre-back and right-back—could make him a vital depth option for Popovic's squad.
Jason Geria (Albirex Niigata, Japan)
Former Melbourne Victory stalwart Jason Geria has been a consistent presence in Australian football for over a decade. Now playing in the J-League with Albirex Niigata, the 31-year-old defender brings experience, versatility, and defensive stability—qualities that could make him a valuable option for the Socceroos amid their current injury concerns.
While primarily a right-back, Geria has also been deployed as a centre-back in various systems. Most notably, he played as a right-sided centre-back during the previous two international windows, being named Man of the Match against Japan, proving his adaptability at the highest level.
His physicality, composure, and reliability in defending one-on-one situations have been key assets throughout his career in Australia and Japan.
With Australia's defensive depth being tested, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Geria included again—either as a squad player or potentially as a starter in a reshuffled backline.
Jason Davidson (Panserraikos, Greece)
Perhaps a forgotten name within the Socceroos setup, Jason Davidson has been quietly flying under the radar, putting together a strong season in Greece's top flight with Panserraikos.
Since joining the club in mid-2024, the 33-year-old has established himself as a regular starter, making 18 appearances and logging over 1500 minutes. His consistent performances have made him an essential figure in Panserraikos' defensive structure, proving that he still has plenty to offer at a high level.
While traditionally a left-back, Davidson has played as a centre-back; his versatility is invaluable given Australia's current shortage of defensive options.
Panserraikos may sit in 11th place with a -18 goal difference, but Davidson's performances have been a bright spot. His experience, positional awareness, and composure make him a potential option for the upcoming window.
Davidson is no stranger to international football, having earned 23 caps for Australia. He was a key figure in the Socceroos' 2015 Asian Cup-winning squad, starting in the Final against South Korea and playing a crucial role throughout the tournament.
While Davidson hasn't featured regularly for the national team in recent years, his experience playing in multiple top leagues, including the Eredivisie, Bundesliga, J-League, and now Greece's Super League 1, ensures he remains a reliable option should the Socceroos require depth.
With Australia's defensive ranks depleted by injuries, a recall for Davidson isn't out of the question. His current form, versatility across the backline, and extensive international experience could make him a valuable addition to the squad, whether as a temporary stopgap or an experienced head in the camp.
Jack Iredale (Hibernian, Scotland)
Making waves in the Scottish Premiership with Hibernian, Jack Iredale has proven to be a key player in their defensive setup.
The 28-year-old, born in Scotland, has featured regularly for the Edinburgh-based club, playing as a left-sided centre-back in a back three or a more traditional left-back role when required. His composure on the ball, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute in attack have made him a valuable asset for Hibs as they push for European qualification.
Since arriving at the club, Iredale has put in several standout performances, including scoring the winner in a recent Edinburgh Derby win over Hearts. His ability to step up in big moments and impact games at both ends of the pitch strengthens his case for a Socceroos call-up.
While Iredale is yet to be capped at the senior international level, he has been on the fringes of selection. He is currently one of Australia's most consistent defenders playing in Europe. Iredale's versatility allows him to slot into different defensive systems, making him an ideal option for Popovic as the Socceroos deal with multiple injuries at the back.
If called up, Iredale would likely join two familiar faces in camp—Hibernian teammates Martin Boyle and Lewis Miller. Having built strong chemistry with them in Scotland, his inclusion could add an extra layer of cohesion to the Australian squad, making him an even more compelling option for the upcoming international window.
Nectarios Triantis (Hibernian, Scotland)
Since moving to Hibernian on loan from Sunderland, Nectarios Triantis has adapted to a new role in the Scottish Premiership. Traditionally a centre-back, the 21-year-old Australian has impressed in a defensive midfield role under the guidance of Hibernian's coaching staff.
In recent performances, Triantis has showcased his versatility and technical skill set. Notably, he scored a remarkable goal against Motherwell, intercepting the ball, advancing, and finishing with precision off the post. This performance earned him Man of the Match honours. Triantis' consistent displays have led to fans affectionately dubbing him the "Aussie Rodri", drawing parallels to Manchester City's esteemed midfielder.
This season, Triantis has been a mainstay in Hibernian's lineup, playing every minute across their last nine league fixtures. His defensive acumen and ability to contribute offensively have been instrumental in Hibernian's pursuit of European qualification.
Triantis' seamless transition into midfield and his defensive foundation provide a unique tactical advantage, allowing him to break up opposition plays effectively and initiate attacks from deeper positions.
A standout performer at youth international level, Triantis has long been seen as a future Socceroos centre-back. While his current role at Hibs is slightly different, his experience playing both as a holding midfielder and in the backline could make him a helpful option for Popovic.
The head coach has also likely been closely monitoring Triantis' progress. The ex-Mariner's ability to operate both in defence and midfield offers valuable flexibility, making him a strong candidate for the upcoming international window.
Bailey Wright (Lion City Sailors, Singapore)
A seasoned Socceroos defender with over a decade of experience in professional football, Bailey Wright remains a reliable option for Australia despite his move to Singapore's Lion City Sailors.
The 31-year-old has earned 27 caps for the national team and was part of the squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, highlighting his experience at the highest level.
While moving to the Singapore Premier League is a step down in quality, Wright's leadership, organisational skills, and defensive nous could still make him a helpful option for Popovic as he navigates an injury-hit backline.
The Sailors deploy a back-three system, with Wright operating on the right-hand side. This experience is valuable should Popovic opt for a defensive structure similar to previous windows. Wright's ability to play in both a traditional back-four and a back-three set-up adds versatility to his game. Meanwhile, his vast experience in English football with clubs like Sunderland, Bristol City, and Preston North End demonstrates his pedigree.
More importantly, Wright and the Sailors are testing themselves at a higher level in the AFC Champions League Two. His side has reached the quarter-finals, overcoming strong opposition from Indonesia and China along the way. Wright's performances in continental competitions show he can still compete at a respectable level by organising his defence and dealing with high-pressure situations.
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Kai Trewin (Melbourne City, Australia)
A bit closer to home, Kai Trewin has steadily built a reputation as one of the most reliable defensive players in the A-League Men.
Trewin moved from Brisbane Roar to Melbourne City in the off-season, and much like Triantis, the 23-year-old has transitioned into a key role as a defensive midfielder. He has showcased his ability to screen the backline, break up opposition attacks, and dictate play from deep.
While traditionally a centre-back—a role he played more regularly at the beginning of the season—Trewin’s shift into midfield has highlighted his composure on the ball, positional awareness, and ability to play progressive passes, which could prove valuable for the Socceroos. His adaptability allows him to drop into the backline when needed, making him a potential option for Popovic.
Despite being uncapped at a senior international level, Trewin has been a regular in youth national teams and remains on the radar for Socceroos selection. Given the lack of fit centre-backs, his versatility and consistency at club level could make him a genuine contender for his first senior call-up.
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