The Carlton-Socceroos relationship continues to grow, with Ikon Park playing host to Australia’s national soccer team on Sunday.
In a closed session at the Blues’ home base, the Socceroos were put through their paces ahead of Tuesday night’s friendly match against Brazil at the MCG.
Star players Tim Cahill, Aaron Mooy and Mile Jedinak were among those to grace the hallowed turf, while passionate Bluebagger Aziz Behich exchanged jumpers with Carlton players Ciaran Byrne and Dennis Armfield before the session.
Byrne said it was an experience he wouldn’t forget.
“It was a huge thrill to meet the Socceroos,” Byrne said.
“There’s a lot we can learn from national sporting teams, and having the Socceroos train right in front of our eyes on our home turf was a real privilege.
“Dennis (Armfield) and I had some good conversations with the staff and players.”
The Blues have utilised their strong ties with the Socceroos in recent years.
Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou, a lifelong Carlton supporter, was a member of the Blues’ coaching sub-committee that recommended Brendon Bolton’s appointment in August 2015.
In 2016, Blues assistant John Barker took his coaching education to the Socceroos, spending the Easter weekend with Postecoglou during the World Cup qualifiers.
Postecoglou was then welcomed into Carlton’s inner sanctum during the 2017 pre-season, spending a day on the track and imparting his knowledge on Carlton’s coaching panel.
The Club would like to wish Postecoglou and the Socceroos the best in their upcoming World Cup qualifying and Confederations Cup campaigns.
Here's a selection of Carlton Media's snaps from the Socceroos' visit:
Tim Cahill with Ciaran Byrne and Dennis Armfield. (Photo: Carlton Media)
Tim Cahill has a chat with Ciaran Byrne and Dennis Armfield. (Photo: Carlton Media)
Passionate Bluebagger Aziz Behich exchanges jumpers with Ciaran Byrne and Dennis Armfield. (Photo: Carlton Media)
The Socceroos warm up. (Photo: Carlton Media)
Tim Cahill and Tom Rogic enjoy their new surroundings. (Photo: Carlton Media)
The Socceroos lace up inside the locker room. (Photo: Carlton Media)
