Former Melbourne Victory forward Nishan Velupillay has been called into Socceroos camp for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil after Mohamed Toure and Alexander Robertson were both forced to withdraw.
Velupillay was part of the Socceroos squad that reached the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has now been recalled to the national team set-up.
The decision was made after Norwich City goalscoring ace Toure picked up a shoulder injury whilst playing for the Canaries last weekend. Robertson has also been withdrawn following conversations between Cardiff City and Football Australia.
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Velupillay, who left Melbourne Victory earlier in the off-season to join German third division side Ingolstadt, will now join up with the Socceroos camp in Queensland.
Tony Popovic’s side face five-time FIFA World Cup winner Brazil on Friday night in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium before then travelling further north to face them again in Townsville on Tuesday, September 29.
Former Victory man Velupillay has so far made five appearances for his new side, scoring one goal.
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Popovic’s side will take to the field for the first time since their Round of 32 exit from the World Cup in July, where they were defeated on penalties by Egypt.
Furthermore, these exhibition matches will also potentially provide Popovic with a good look at several untested and uncapped players ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia in January.
