The Socceroos will wear black armbands throughout Tuesday’s (Wednesday AEST) FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kyrgyzstan in respect to the passing of Adham Elrich, younger brother of Socceroo defender Tarek Elrich.
Adham, 25, passed away on Friday, 12 June, having lived the past 21-years in a semi-coma state due to a serious accident he suffered as an infant.
In a show of great strength and courage, Tarek has opted to remain in camp with the Socceroos and remains eligible for selection on Tuesday.
Tarek has, and continues to, receive support from his Socceroos teammates and support staff.
“First and foremost, we as a team and as a football community extend our deepest sympathies to Tarek and his family inrespect to Adham’s passing,” said Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak.
“Tarek has shown incredible strength in choosing to remain with his teammates.
“We’re inspired by his courage and will take this on to the pitch in Adham’s honour on Tuesday.”
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FFA CEO David Gallop also offered his condolences to Elrich and his family after Adham's passing.
"Our thoughts are with Tarek and his family at this difficult time," Gallop said.
"We all applaud Tarek's courage to remain with the Socceroos and represent Australia on Tuesday night against Kyrgyzstan."
Match Information
Tuesday, 16 June
Kyrgyzstan v Australia
Dolen Omurzakov Stadium, Bishkek
Kick off 8pm (Wednesday, 17 June – 12am AEST)
The match will be broadcast exclusively live on Fox Sports and on a one-hour delay on SBS.
