Manchester United youngster James Overy has received his first senior call-up to the Australia national team for upcoming friendlies against Colombia and Venezuela, as coach Tony Popovic looks to expand his squad depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The 17-year-old full-back, who joined United’s academy last year, has yet to make his senior debut for the Premier League club but represented Australia at the recent Under-20 World Cup.
Born in Perth, Overy is one of seven uncapped players named in Popovic’s 26-man squad, announced on Friday. The selection marks the second-to-last international window before the World Cup in North America and highlights Popovic’s focus on integrating emerging talent.
Among the other potential debutants are Sydney FC forward Al Hassan Toure, who joins his younger brother Mohamed Toure in the squad, as well as Poland-based striker Deni Juric, Melbourne City goalkeeper Patrick Beach, and centre-back Kai Trewin.
Sydney FC midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler, son of former Socceroos captain Paul Okon, and Scotland-born defender Jack Iredale have also been called up as they look to earn their first international caps.
Australia will face Venezuela on November 14 in Houston, followed by a clash with World Cup-bound Colombia on November 18 in New York.
There was also positive news on the injury front, with key midfielders Jackson Irvine and Riley McGree returning to the squad. Irvine, based in Germany, is back after an eight-month absence due to foot surgery and a recent quadriceps issue, while McGree has recovered from a similar injury.
Veteran winger Craig Goodwin also earns a recall — his first since March — after returning to the A-League with Adelaide City following his spell in Saudi Arabia.
Popovic’s latest selection blends youth and experience as Australia continue their preparations for next summer’s World Cup qualifiers and beyond.
