Dougall carrying the torch for Caltex Socceroos seeking to break through

Jacob Windon 1536207357,1536258940

Kenny Dougall was once a name that disappeared off the radar for even the most ardent of Caltex Socceroos fans.

Not so for Graham Arnold, who has brought the Brisbane-born midfielder back into the national team fold for his first ever training camp.

READ: Aussie boys taking Scotland by storm
READ: Degenek on a 'dream come true'

It’s a well-deserved call up for a player enjoying a sensational start to life with English League One outfit Barnsley.

And the 25-year-old says his inclusion in Arnold’s first training camp opens the door for other fringe Caltex Socceroos players.

“To be selected in the Socceroos is one of the best feelings,” he told www.socceroos.com.au.

“It gives me hope going forward that maybe I will be in the plans.

“Even for other players that haven’t been called up or are on the fringes, [it] gives everyone a bit of hope and it shows that new faces are always good.

“For me, it’s exciting times ahead.”

Dougall will now try and force his way into Arnold’s AFC Asian Cup plans and could yet emerge as a surprise contender to bolster the midfield ranks.

Arnold’s gaze will surely linger over the midfielder following his impressive opening days in South Yorkshire.

Barnsley are currently third in League One after an unbeaten start and Dougall’s role anchoring the middle of the park has been a pivotal ingredient in the club’s early success.

“The international break has probably come at the wrong time for us.

“But it’s club football and international football. It’s always nice when you’re doing well for you club.

“I’m feeling good football-wise, I’m feeling good so really looking forward to this week of training.”