Four more Western Sydney Wanderers players were today announced as part of the inaugural Foxtel A-League All Stars squad to take on Manchester United.
Four more Western Sydney Wanderers players were today announced as part of the inaugural Foxtel A-League All Stars squad to take on Manchester United.
Wanderers captain Michael Beauchamp, Mark Bridge, Ante Covic and Youssouf Hersi today joined teammate Nikolai Topor-Stanley at ANZ Stadium where the Foxtel A-League All Stars will play their debut game on 20 July.
All five players polled strongly in the online voting with Beauchamp saying he was looking forward to having the opportunity to line up alongside so many teammates against a team of the pedigree of Manchester United.
“It-s a credit to the Wanderers squad and the season we had how many players we-ve had picked in the All-Stars side and we probably could have had a couple more,” he said.
“It-s a great achievement not only by Wanderers players but all the players that are in the squad, having been selected by the fans and coaches and we-re all looking forward to the challenge.
“I-m looking forward to having the opportunity to play with former teammates like Brett Emerton, as well as players I-ve never played with before,” said Beauchamp.
Striker Mark Bridge said the match was a massive coup for the Hyundai A-League and that it was a privilege to be selected.
“It-s massive for the A-League to be able to showcase themselves at this level and on a personal note it-s a good reward for a good season with the Wanderers, so there are some exciting times ahead.”
Dutch star Youssouf Hersi was similarly proud to be picked, especially after the disappointment of missing last year's grand final through suspension.
However Hersi was adamant the side would not be overawed by the occasion and that he was looking forward to potentially coming up against compatriot Robin van Persie.
"For me I will treat it like a normal game. Every time I play I just try to do my best and show my stuff," he said.
"It's a new season, it's time to start again and I cannot wait," Hersi exclaimed.
More players are set to be announced for the squad in the coming week prior to the team going into camp on 12 July.
Fans can get up close and personal with the Foxtel A-League All Stars at an open training session on Sunday 14 July at Sydney Olympic Park-s Warm Up Arena. Gates open at 9:30am with training starting at 10:00am.
Visitwww.footballaustralia.com.au/open-training to register.
The All Stars will debut against Manchester United at ANZ Stadium, Sydney, on 20 July with the match to be broadcast live and exclusive on the Seven Network nationally.
For all the news on the Foxtel A-League All Stars go to a-leagueallstars.com.au