'He has a unique quality': Denmark legend sings Arzani praise

Daniel Arzani’s unique talent and ability to be a game-changer makes him a must for the Caltex Socceroos FIFA World Cup squad, according to former Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.

Arzani remains in contention for a spot on the plane to Russia after being named in Bert van Marwijk’s 26-man squad which will head to Turkey for a pre-FIFA World Cup training camp.

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While the inclusion of the 19-year-old – one of two uncapped players in the squad along with defender Fran Karacic – may be a surprise for some, Sorensen has endorsed Arzani's selection.

The 101-capped Danish international played alongside Arzani at Melbourne City and has no doubt the teenager could be an x-factor for the Caltex Socceroos in Russia.

“Looking at the Australian team, he can definitely add something to it. He’s a young player and he’s definitely not reached his full potential yet,” Sorensen told Perform of his former City teammate.

“But he has a unique quality. He can beat a man, he’s quick, he’s explosive, he has that x-factor which can be a game-changer.

“With the pool of players [Australia] have he can add something they don’t necessarily have. He has shown enough to warrant a spot in the squad.

“He could be an x-factor when you need it late in a game when you need to chase a goal, he can come on and beat players and create something out of nothing.

“Those are players you can never be short of.”

Daniel Arzani

Sorensen believes the experience of being at such a huge tournament will play a huge role in furthering Arzani’s development for the future, even if he doesn’t get on the pitch in Russia.

The Danish goalkeeping legend knows all about playing at the world football’s biggest tournament, having played at two FIFA World Cups during his 13-year international career.

Asked the advice he’d give his former City teammate of playing at a World Cup, Sorensen said: “First of all you have to enjoy it.

“I know players who have played for a lifetime and never been to a World Cup. It’s not everyone that gets that opportunity and you never know if you are ever going to get it again.

“Make the most of it, every training you have to put your name forward, there’s a chance to play and you want to be on that pitch and making a difference, you can also help your career so it’s a massive opportunity.”

The players will now join up for pre-FIFA World Cup training camp in the coastal town of Antalya, Turkey commencing 20 May.

Following the Friday 1 June friendly against the Czech Republic, van Marwijk will then reduce the squad again to the final 23 by Sunday 3 June.