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paladisious
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+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. He's got loads of Peruvians commenting on all his insta posts lol
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Barca4Life
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+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. He's got loads of Peruvians commenting on all his insta posts lol That's probably not a surprise lol
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jaymz
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+x+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. ATM its a bit unfair to be picking a player who has no senior first team caps for any team for the Olyroos. The Olyroos really are the finishing school of the national team, not the development team. That being said if he starts getting caps for City and doing well it changes the conversation With all due respect, I think that's a pretty naive view, considering the challenge we'll have in getting him to pick us. Anyway, I think if you're good enough for the U23s of the richest club in the world then you're good enough for the Australia U23s in any case. I appreciate what you are saying, although all i am saying is we dont know who he is going to pick its way too early but Aus does have its merits for him. But considering he hasnt made his debut its premature for any of us to say which national team he will be picking yet (or if he is good enough, there are heaps of players at youth level who cant make the step up. Not saying this is the case but we dont know if it is or isnt yet).
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SoccerooFan
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+x+x+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. ATM its a bit unfair to be picking a player who has no senior first team caps for any team for the Olyroos. The Olyroos really are the finishing school of the national team, not the development team. That being said if he starts getting caps for City and doing well it changes the conversation With all due respect, I think that's a pretty naive view, considering the challenge we'll have in getting him to pick us. Anyway, I think if you're good enough for the U23s of the richest club in the world then you're good enough for the Australia U23s in any case. I appreciate what you are saying, although all i am saying is we dont know who he is going to pick its way too early but Aus does have its merits for him. But considering he hasnt made his debut its premature for any of us to say which national team he will be picking yet (or if he is good enough, there are heaps of players at youth level who cant make the step up. Not saying this is the case but we dont know if it is or isnt yet). That's why we Cap him early for 3 games and lock him in. If he's getting called up to play for the Man City's top team, even in a midweek cup game, at the age of 17, then he's probably our top junior prospect since Harry Kewell - we don't want to lose this kid!!!
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playmaker11
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Behich starting
By now, American Samoa must have realised that Australias 22-0 win over Tonga two days earlier was no fluke.
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maxxie
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+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. ATM its a bit unfair to be picking a player who has no senior first team caps for any team for the Olyroos. The Olyroos really are the finishing school of the national team, not the development team. That being said if he starts getting caps for City and doing well it changes the conversation With all due respect, I think that's a pretty naive view, considering the challenge we'll have in getting him to pick us. Anyway, I think if you're good enough for the U23s of the richest club in the world then you're good enough for the Australia U23s in any case. I appreciate what you are saying, although all i am saying is we dont know who he is going to pick its way too early but Aus does have its merits for him. But considering he hasnt made his debut its premature for any of us to say which national team he will be picking yet (or if he is good enough, there are heaps of players at youth level who cant make the step up. Not saying this is the case but we dont know if it is or isnt yet). That's why we Cap him early for 3 games and lock him in. If he's getting called up to play for the Man City's top team, even in a midweek cup game, at the age of 17, then he's probably our top junior prospect since Harry Kewell - we don't want to lose this kid!!! I think the point people are making is he might not accept being capped by us if England is still a realistic options, especially if he senses we're only capping him to lock him down.
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paladisious
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Group: Moderators
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+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. ATM its a bit unfair to be picking a player who has no senior first team caps for any team for the Olyroos. The Olyroos really are the finishing school of the national team, not the development team. That being said if he starts getting caps for City and doing well it changes the conversation With all due respect, I think that's a pretty naive view, considering the challenge we'll have in getting him to pick us. Anyway, I think if you're good enough for the U23s of the richest club in the world then you're good enough for the Australia U23s in any case. I appreciate what you are saying, although all i am saying is we dont know who he is going to pick its way too early but Aus does have its merits for him. But considering he hasnt made his debut its premature for any of us to say which national team he will be picking yet (or if he is good enough, there are heaps of players at youth level who cant make the step up. Not saying this is the case but we dont know if it is or isnt yet). That's why we Cap him early for 3 games and lock him in. If he's getting called up to play for the Man City's top team, even in a midweek cup game, at the age of 17, then he's probably our top junior prospect since Harry Kewell - we don't want to lose this kid!!! I think the point people are making is he might not accept being capped by us if England is still a realistic options, especially if he senses we're only capping him to lock him down. Yeah if we're going to cap him we need to demonstrate a commitment cutting both ways, it's the only decent thing to do. Then again, if he doesn't turn out to be good enough for the Socceroos he wasn't going to be good enough for his other options anyway, so I don't see a downside in capping him as soon as possible. Hopefully a ticket to Tokyo will be a big carrot on the stick.
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rusty
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Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop.
Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England.
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Bowden
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Does anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with?
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charlied
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+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+xAlex Robertson is training with the first team at Man City atm - with their injury crisis, a lot of City fans think he’ll feature in their League Cup match midweek... That'd be massive For England... He's not going to play for Australia if he can play for England Or for Peru or Scotland as well, the kid has got options thats for sure. ATM its a bit unfair to be picking a player who has no senior first team caps for any team for the Olyroos. The Olyroos really are the finishing school of the national team, not the development team. That being said if he starts getting caps for City and doing well it changes the conversation With all due respect, I think that's a pretty naive view, considering the challenge we'll have in getting him to pick us. Anyway, I think if you're good enough for the U23s of the richest club in the world then you're good enough for the Australia U23s in any case. I appreciate what you are saying, although all i am saying is we dont know who he is going to pick its way too early but Aus does have its merits for him. But considering he hasnt made his debut its premature for any of us to say which national team he will be picking yet (or if he is good enough, there are heaps of players at youth level who cant make the step up. Not saying this is the case but we dont know if it is or isnt yet). That's why we Cap him early for 3 games and lock him in. If he's getting called up to play for the Man City's top team, even in a midweek cup game, at the age of 17, then he's probably our top junior prospect since Harry Kewell - we don't want to lose this kid!!! We've already lost him and frankly so what?
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paladisious
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+xHas anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence.
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paladisious
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+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? https://www.transfermarkt.com/detailsuche/spielerdetail/suche/25622732
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sportaddict
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+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21
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sportaddict
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+x+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21 Players like Yunus Musah, a huge talent in a similar position and arguably a better player of roughly the same age has quit England to play for the US. Musah captained England at all age levels and plays regularly for Valencia’s first team, this might provide a bit of perspective
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Bunch of Hacks
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+x+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21 CHO and Maddinson also. Cap him farken!
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SoccerooFan
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+x+x+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21 CHO and Maddinson also. Cap him farken! Exactly!! He's not getting in there ahead of these guys. Kewell was eligible for England as well, imagine if we'd lost him? They took a punt, capped him while he was young & the rest is history
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johnszasz
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Tim Cahill is currently the favourite for the Fleetwood Town post, ahead of Carlisle boss Chris Beech, former Lincoln manager Danny Cowley, and interim boss Simon Wiles
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Balin Trev
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+x+xHas anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Fair enough - but Do you think Muscat or Ange would have more charm?! (Sorry not having a go but i can see u pasting in that gif of Arnie shaking his head soon 😉)
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jaymz
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+x+x[quote]Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Thought you may be interested to see these two articles. Anyone know if he ended up playing for the young socceroos? This is from Feb 2020
Manchester City rookie Robertson set for Australia debut
Manchester City youngster Alexander Robertson will make a keenly-anticipated debut for Australia when he steps out for the Young Socceroos in the Netherlands on Tuesday, giving oxygen to hopes he may not be lost to England after all.
The Scotland-born, Sydney-raised 16-year-old - viewed as a star in the making by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold and green and gold great Tim Cahill - has netted three goals in four appearances for the Three Lions at U-17 level, leading to the conclusion he had already made his choice over which nation to represent.But with father Mark and grandad Alex both former Socceroos, the temptation to follow in their footsteps appears alive and well.
Before heading to Manchester airport on Sunday to board a flight to join Gary van Egmond’s side for a friendly clash against FC Twente, Robertson told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “Spending a fair bit of my early years in Australia (from the age of four to 12), I’ve got a real connection with the country and making an appearance would definitely be an honour.“I’m looking forward to this chance and to hopefully show a bit of what I’m about.“It’s been a good season so far at club level - and I think my game’s been progressing pretty well (after a number of injury setbacks in recent years).”Van Egmond is assessing the merits of a 20-plus party of players at a talent identification camp in Netherlands, with a 1-0 win over FC Utrecht’s youngsters followed by a 4-0 loss to Ajax’s young guns on Saturday in a reminder of the gap between Europe’s best and brightest and Australia’s next gen hopefuls.
Pleased to have Robertson available after a number of false starts - alongside the likes of Southampton youngster Caleb Watts - van Egmond told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “We need to balance everything off in regard to what’s happening with him from the club at perspective.“The most important part of this is him, and ensuring the national team door is always open and we’re looking to see how we can best accommodate that.“There’s no pressure and it’s not a matter of him signing on the dotted line (in making an unequivocal commitment to Australia).“We’re welcoming (him) in, and like some of the others here he has opportunities with other national teams through family links.“It’s about showing them what it’s like, being as open as possible and seeing how it all works.“This is a training identification camp and we’ve had players from all over Europe coming in.“In Alex’s case, you’re not at Manchester City unless you’re a good player and it will be great to see him within our environment.“There are plenty of good players we need to find out about heading into October’s (AFC World Youth Cup) qualifiers in Uzbekistan.”
Robertson Sr, who played for Australia at the 1997 World Youth Cup, said: “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart.” Robertson signed a four-year deal at the Etihad last year, and has been called up by Pep Guardiola to train with City’s senior stars on several occasions this season, in recognition of his promise.City’s U-18s, for whom Robertson has been highly influential, top the league, are in the last eight of the FA Youth Cup and the final of the Premier League Youth Cup.
This is from April 2019 Meet Manchester City's teenage Aussie superstar in the making - David Weiner is the Editor of Optus Sport
Ask 15-year-old Australian Alexander Robertson where he sees himself in two years, and he doesn’t even flinch.“Playing (UEFA) Champions League football.”The teenager, from Maroubra in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has become one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. And that dream is anything but a fantasy. He is about to ink a four-year contract with Manchester City, while he also has landed a long-term contract with Adidas.The precocious talent, who was signed by City from Manchester United, is managed by former England, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, and was coveted by all of the Premier League’s top six clubs.He also comes from impeccable football pedigree.
His father Mark played for Australia. His grandfather, also named Alex, also represented the Socceroos. Could we be about to see the third generation in an incredible family dynasty wearing green and gold?It is complicated.Robertson has two caps for England’s under-16s, and has Peru and Scotland also vying for his talents along with Australia. He will have to make an early call ahead of the under-17 World Cup in Brazil. Although that decision will not be binding, at some point, he will have to decide where his heart lies.“There is a different gut feeling to every country,”
Robertson explained to Optus SportOptus Sport.“Australia: I’ve lived here, I’m from here.“Scotland: I was born there, my grandparents were born there.“Peru: My mum, my grandma, my great grandma – her side of the family are from there.“England: they’ve taken me in as a country.“It is just different for every country. Different aspects. I’ll just make a decision when I get there.”His father Mark, who represented Australia at every level and played club football in England and Scotland, adds: “If I was to advise him to play for a national team, a lot of that would come from the heart. Is that the right thing? I’m not sure, because he has got an element of feelings as well.“For me, there is no other place in the world that I would rather play for: the Socceroos, Joeys, Olyroos, Young Socceroos. I had great pride singing the national anthem but I didn’t live in a different country at 12 or live with people from different environments … I can only respect the choice he makes and will love and support him.”For now, Alexander’s priorities are to recover from an injury to make his way at the current Premier League leaders; where Pep Guardiola watches his sessions and games and where he has received special advice from captain Vincent Kompany on what it takes to make it at the juggernaut and break into a side bursting with the biggest stars on the planet.
The 15-year-old, who turns 16 later this month, started his overseas adventure when his family took the plunge and moved to England when he was 12. He had been playing club football at New South Wales National Premier League club Hakoah Sydney City, where his father was first grade coach, assisted by his grandfather, but moving to England, and getting experience at Manchester United was a whole new world.
Alexander reflects: “At Manchester United I learnt to be “brave” – football is a lot quicker in England.“I used to take a lot of touches, dribbling, that’s what I did in Australia. They explained how I need to move the ball quicker.” Mark adds: “There are people with negative mindsets to say would it be worth it for a 12-year-old to play football in Europe? “But we took the choice to commit to the young bloke’s future and as a family we felt like we made the right decision.” Ironically, it was a 6-1 loss playing for the Red Devils, against Manchester City, which changed things dramatically for the midfielder, whose hero was Steven Gerrard, and who cites former Socceroos Lucas Neill and Hayden Foxe as two of his key mentors growing up. On the way home from the game, his parents got a call from their opponents that day. Mark explains: “I know the main reason Manchester City really, really like him – he was playing for Manchester United and his team was getting beat 5-0 and when the fifth goal went in, Alexander sprinted into the net, picked the ball up and sprinted back to the halfway line and turned around gave words of encouragement to his teammates.“Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed. “Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed.“It is a great drive he has got, technically very good, great first touch, passing range with both feet, and most importantly he can score goals, which is important when he times his runs well into the box as a No.8 (midfielder) … It was a marriage made in heaven: They wanted a hard-working, technically gifted, goal scoring midfielder of his age group – it was fantastic how it worked out.” Manchester is a long way from Maroubra. But despite Alexander’s lofty ambitions, he remains grounded. And his dad is making sure of that. “I am just grateful to be a part of such a big club, like them, coming from Hakoah in Sydney. Going halfway across the world to that – it is unbelievable,” Alexander says. Mark adds: “Sometimes you’ve got to find the right door (at City’s training complex) to walk through because the complex is so massive! “I say to Alexander sometimes you have to not look at the façade, and say, having the Rolls Royce treatment, and five-star facilities and look beyond that and keep it real: every training session has to be of the highest order, at your best for each game. “Yes, Man City I’d say are the best facilities I have seen in my life. But the facilities are not what make the footballer. “The footballer is the one who makes the most out of the facilities.” If he does so, Champions League in two years?“I’ve got a tunnel vision just to be the best.” “I used to get photos with players but now nothing really fazes me. I’ve seen a lot of professional players – they are just another human being. I’ve met the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba, all of the Manchester United team but they are just normal people … “I aspire to be like them.” 
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sportaddict
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+x+x+x[quote]Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Thought you may be interested to see these two articles. Anyone know if he ended up playing for the young socceroos? This is from Feb 2020
Manchester City rookie Robertson set for Australia debut
Manchester City youngster Alexander Robertson will make a keenly-anticipated debut for Australia when he steps out for the Young Socceroos in the Netherlands on Tuesday, giving oxygen to hopes he may not be lost to England after all.
The Scotland-born, Sydney-raised 16-year-old - viewed as a star in the making by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold and green and gold great Tim Cahill - has netted three goals in four appearances for the Three Lions at U-17 level, leading to the conclusion he had already made his choice over which nation to represent.But with father Mark and grandad Alex both former Socceroos, the temptation to follow in their footsteps appears alive and well.
Before heading to Manchester airport on Sunday to board a flight to join Gary van Egmond’s side for a friendly clash against FC Twente, Robertson told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “Spending a fair bit of my early years in Australia (from the age of four to 12), I’ve got a real connection with the country and making an appearance would definitely be an honour.“I’m looking forward to this chance and to hopefully show a bit of what I’m about.“It’s been a good season so far at club level - and I think my game’s been progressing pretty well (after a number of injury setbacks in recent years).”Van Egmond is assessing the merits of a 20-plus party of players at a talent identification camp in Netherlands, with a 1-0 win over FC Utrecht’s youngsters followed by a 4-0 loss to Ajax’s young guns on Saturday in a reminder of the gap between Europe’s best and brightest and Australia’s next gen hopefuls.
Pleased to have Robertson available after a number of false starts - alongside the likes of Southampton youngster Caleb Watts - van Egmond told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “We need to balance everything off in regard to what’s happening with him from the club at perspective.“The most important part of this is him, and ensuring the national team door is always open and we’re looking to see how we can best accommodate that.“There’s no pressure and it’s not a matter of him signing on the dotted line (in making an unequivocal commitment to Australia).“We’re welcoming (him) in, and like some of the others here he has opportunities with other national teams through family links.“It’s about showing them what it’s like, being as open as possible and seeing how it all works.“This is a training identification camp and we’ve had players from all over Europe coming in.“In Alex’s case, you’re not at Manchester City unless you’re a good player and it will be great to see him within our environment.“There are plenty of good players we need to find out about heading into October’s (AFC World Youth Cup) qualifiers in Uzbekistan.”
Robertson Sr, who played for Australia at the 1997 World Youth Cup, said: “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart.” Robertson signed a four-year deal at the Etihad last year, and has been called up by Pep Guardiola to train with City’s senior stars on several occasions this season, in recognition of his promise.City’s U-18s, for whom Robertson has been highly influential, top the league, are in the last eight of the FA Youth Cup and the final of the Premier League Youth Cup.
This is from April 2019 Meet Manchester City's teenage Aussie superstar in the making - David Weiner is the Editor of Optus Sport
Ask 15-year-old Australian Alexander Robertson where he sees himself in two years, and he doesn’t even flinch.“Playing (UEFA) Champions League football.”The teenager, from Maroubra in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has become one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. And that dream is anything but a fantasy. He is about to ink a four-year contract with Manchester City, while he also has landed a long-term contract with Adidas.The precocious talent, who was signed by City from Manchester United, is managed by former England, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, and was coveted by all of the Premier League’s top six clubs.He also comes from impeccable football pedigree.
His father Mark played for Australia. His grandfather, also named Alex, also represented the Socceroos. Could we be about to see the third generation in an incredible family dynasty wearing green and gold?It is complicated.Robertson has two caps for England’s under-16s, and has Peru and Scotland also vying for his talents along with Australia. He will have to make an early call ahead of the under-17 World Cup in Brazil. Although that decision will not be binding, at some point, he will have to decide where his heart lies.“There is a different gut feeling to every country,”
Robertson explained to Optus SportOptus Sport.“Australia: I’ve lived here, I’m from here.“Scotland: I was born there, my grandparents were born there.“Peru: My mum, my grandma, my great grandma – her side of the family are from there.“England: they’ve taken me in as a country.“It is just different for every country. Different aspects. I’ll just make a decision when I get there.”His father Mark, who represented Australia at every level and played club football in England and Scotland, adds: “If I was to advise him to play for a national team, a lot of that would come from the heart. Is that the right thing? I’m not sure, because he has got an element of feelings as well.“For me, there is no other place in the world that I would rather play for: the Socceroos, Joeys, Olyroos, Young Socceroos. I had great pride singing the national anthem but I didn’t live in a different country at 12 or live with people from different environments … I can only respect the choice he makes and will love and support him.”For now, Alexander’s priorities are to recover from an injury to make his way at the current Premier League leaders; where Pep Guardiola watches his sessions and games and where he has received special advice from captain Vincent Kompany on what it takes to make it at the juggernaut and break into a side bursting with the biggest stars on the planet.
The 15-year-old, who turns 16 later this month, started his overseas adventure when his family took the plunge and moved to England when he was 12. He had been playing club football at New South Wales National Premier League club Hakoah Sydney City, where his father was first grade coach, assisted by his grandfather, but moving to England, and getting experience at Manchester United was a whole new world.
Alexander reflects: “At Manchester United I learnt to be “brave” – football is a lot quicker in England.“I used to take a lot of touches, dribbling, that’s what I did in Australia. They explained how I need to move the ball quicker.” Mark adds: “There are people with negative mindsets to say would it be worth it for a 12-year-old to play football in Europe? “But we took the choice to commit to the young bloke’s future and as a family we felt like we made the right decision.” Ironically, it was a 6-1 loss playing for the Red Devils, against Manchester City, which changed things dramatically for the midfielder, whose hero was Steven Gerrard, and who cites former Socceroos Lucas Neill and Hayden Foxe as two of his key mentors growing up. On the way home from the game, his parents got a call from their opponents that day. Mark explains: “I know the main reason Manchester City really, really like him – he was playing for Manchester United and his team was getting beat 5-0 and when the fifth goal went in, Alexander sprinted into the net, picked the ball up and sprinted back to the halfway line and turned around gave words of encouragement to his teammates.“Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed. “Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed.“It is a great drive he has got, technically very good, great first touch, passing range with both feet, and most importantly he can score goals, which is important when he times his runs well into the box as a No.8 (midfielder) … It was a marriage made in heaven: They wanted a hard-working, technically gifted, goal scoring midfielder of his age group – it was fantastic how it worked out.” Manchester is a long way from Maroubra. But despite Alexander’s lofty ambitions, he remains grounded. And his dad is making sure of that. “I am just grateful to be a part of such a big club, like them, coming from Hakoah in Sydney. Going halfway across the world to that – it is unbelievable,” Alexander says. Mark adds: “Sometimes you’ve got to find the right door (at City’s training complex) to walk through because the complex is so massive! “I say to Alexander sometimes you have to not look at the façade, and say, having the Rolls Royce treatment, and five-star facilities and look beyond that and keep it real: every training session has to be of the highest order, at your best for each game. “Yes, Man City I’d say are the best facilities I have seen in my life. But the facilities are not what make the footballer. “The footballer is the one who makes the most out of the facilities.” If he does so, Champions League in two years?“I’ve got a tunnel vision just to be the best.” “I used to get photos with players but now nothing really fazes me. I’ve seen a lot of professional players – they are just another human being. I’ve met the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba, all of the Manchester United team but they are just normal people … “I aspire to be like them.” He did play 1 game for the Young Socceroos at the end of their European tour in Feb 2020.
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SoccerooFan
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+x+x+x+x[quote]Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Thought you may be interested to see these two articles. Anyone know if he ended up playing for the young socceroos? This is from Feb 2020
Manchester City rookie Robertson set for Australia debut
Manchester City youngster Alexander Robertson will make a keenly-anticipated debut for Australia when he steps out for the Young Socceroos in the Netherlands on Tuesday, giving oxygen to hopes he may not be lost to England after all.
The Scotland-born, Sydney-raised 16-year-old - viewed as a star in the making by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold and green and gold great Tim Cahill - has netted three goals in four appearances for the Three Lions at U-17 level, leading to the conclusion he had already made his choice over which nation to represent.But with father Mark and grandad Alex both former Socceroos, the temptation to follow in their footsteps appears alive and well.
Before heading to Manchester airport on Sunday to board a flight to join Gary van Egmond’s side for a friendly clash against FC Twente, Robertson told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “Spending a fair bit of my early years in Australia (from the age of four to 12), I’ve got a real connection with the country and making an appearance would definitely be an honour.“I’m looking forward to this chance and to hopefully show a bit of what I’m about.“It’s been a good season so far at club level - and I think my game’s been progressing pretty well (after a number of injury setbacks in recent years).”Van Egmond is assessing the merits of a 20-plus party of players at a talent identification camp in Netherlands, with a 1-0 win over FC Utrecht’s youngsters followed by a 4-0 loss to Ajax’s young guns on Saturday in a reminder of the gap between Europe’s best and brightest and Australia’s next gen hopefuls.
Pleased to have Robertson available after a number of false starts - alongside the likes of Southampton youngster Caleb Watts - van Egmond told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “We need to balance everything off in regard to what’s happening with him from the club at perspective.“The most important part of this is him, and ensuring the national team door is always open and we’re looking to see how we can best accommodate that.“There’s no pressure and it’s not a matter of him signing on the dotted line (in making an unequivocal commitment to Australia).“We’re welcoming (him) in, and like some of the others here he has opportunities with other national teams through family links.“It’s about showing them what it’s like, being as open as possible and seeing how it all works.“This is a training identification camp and we’ve had players from all over Europe coming in.“In Alex’s case, you’re not at Manchester City unless you’re a good player and it will be great to see him within our environment.“There are plenty of good players we need to find out about heading into October’s (AFC World Youth Cup) qualifiers in Uzbekistan.”
Robertson Sr, who played for Australia at the 1997 World Youth Cup, said: “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart.” Robertson signed a four-year deal at the Etihad last year, and has been called up by Pep Guardiola to train with City’s senior stars on several occasions this season, in recognition of his promise.City’s U-18s, for whom Robertson has been highly influential, top the league, are in the last eight of the FA Youth Cup and the final of the Premier League Youth Cup.
This is from April 2019 Meet Manchester City's teenage Aussie superstar in the making - David Weiner is the Editor of Optus Sport
Ask 15-year-old Australian Alexander Robertson where he sees himself in two years, and he doesn’t even flinch.“Playing (UEFA) Champions League football.”The teenager, from Maroubra in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has become one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. And that dream is anything but a fantasy. He is about to ink a four-year contract with Manchester City, while he also has landed a long-term contract with Adidas.The precocious talent, who was signed by City from Manchester United, is managed by former England, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, and was coveted by all of the Premier League’s top six clubs.He also comes from impeccable football pedigree.
His father Mark played for Australia. His grandfather, also named Alex, also represented the Socceroos. Could we be about to see the third generation in an incredible family dynasty wearing green and gold?It is complicated.Robertson has two caps for England’s under-16s, and has Peru and Scotland also vying for his talents along with Australia. He will have to make an early call ahead of the under-17 World Cup in Brazil. Although that decision will not be binding, at some point, he will have to decide where his heart lies.“There is a different gut feeling to every country,”
Robertson explained to Optus SportOptus Sport.“Australia: I’ve lived here, I’m from here.“Scotland: I was born there, my grandparents were born there.“Peru: My mum, my grandma, my great grandma – her side of the family are from there.“England: they’ve taken me in as a country.“It is just different for every country. Different aspects. I’ll just make a decision when I get there.”His father Mark, who represented Australia at every level and played club football in England and Scotland, adds: “If I was to advise him to play for a national team, a lot of that would come from the heart. Is that the right thing? I’m not sure, because he has got an element of feelings as well.“For me, there is no other place in the world that I would rather play for: the Socceroos, Joeys, Olyroos, Young Socceroos. I had great pride singing the national anthem but I didn’t live in a different country at 12 or live with people from different environments … I can only respect the choice he makes and will love and support him.”For now, Alexander’s priorities are to recover from an injury to make his way at the current Premier League leaders; where Pep Guardiola watches his sessions and games and where he has received special advice from captain Vincent Kompany on what it takes to make it at the juggernaut and break into a side bursting with the biggest stars on the planet.
The 15-year-old, who turns 16 later this month, started his overseas adventure when his family took the plunge and moved to England when he was 12. He had been playing club football at New South Wales National Premier League club Hakoah Sydney City, where his father was first grade coach, assisted by his grandfather, but moving to England, and getting experience at Manchester United was a whole new world.
Alexander reflects: “At Manchester United I learnt to be “brave” – football is a lot quicker in England.“I used to take a lot of touches, dribbling, that’s what I did in Australia. They explained how I need to move the ball quicker.” Mark adds: “There are people with negative mindsets to say would it be worth it for a 12-year-old to play football in Europe? “But we took the choice to commit to the young bloke’s future and as a family we felt like we made the right decision.” Ironically, it was a 6-1 loss playing for the Red Devils, against Manchester City, which changed things dramatically for the midfielder, whose hero was Steven Gerrard, and who cites former Socceroos Lucas Neill and Hayden Foxe as two of his key mentors growing up. On the way home from the game, his parents got a call from their opponents that day. Mark explains: “I know the main reason Manchester City really, really like him – he was playing for Manchester United and his team was getting beat 5-0 and when the fifth goal went in, Alexander sprinted into the net, picked the ball up and sprinted back to the halfway line and turned around gave words of encouragement to his teammates.“Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed. “Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed.“It is a great drive he has got, technically very good, great first touch, passing range with both feet, and most importantly he can score goals, which is important when he times his runs well into the box as a No.8 (midfielder) … It was a marriage made in heaven: They wanted a hard-working, technically gifted, goal scoring midfielder of his age group – it was fantastic how it worked out.” Manchester is a long way from Maroubra. But despite Alexander’s lofty ambitions, he remains grounded. And his dad is making sure of that. “I am just grateful to be a part of such a big club, like them, coming from Hakoah in Sydney. Going halfway across the world to that – it is unbelievable,” Alexander says. Mark adds: “Sometimes you’ve got to find the right door (at City’s training complex) to walk through because the complex is so massive! “I say to Alexander sometimes you have to not look at the façade, and say, having the Rolls Royce treatment, and five-star facilities and look beyond that and keep it real: every training session has to be of the highest order, at your best for each game. “Yes, Man City I’d say are the best facilities I have seen in my life. But the facilities are not what make the footballer. “The footballer is the one who makes the most out of the facilities.” If he does so, Champions League in two years?“I’ve got a tunnel vision just to be the best.” “I used to get photos with players but now nothing really fazes me. I’ve seen a lot of professional players – they are just another human being. I’ve met the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba, all of the Manchester United team but they are just normal people … “I aspire to be like them.” He did play 1 game for the Young Socceroos at the end of their European tour in Feb 2020. Yeah he played for the Young Socceroos before the shit hit the fan with Covid. I'd dare say he would've played a few more times last year for Young Socceroos & Olyroos. As quoted above, his Father has said he's still keen on Australia long term. His Father also said, that Trevor Morgan didn't enquire about him for the u17 World Cup, suggesting that if he had he probably would've played for the Joeys. So we definitely haven't lost him, but I wouldn't take too long to get him to commit - I'd say Scotland and Peru are very keen as well. We don't want another Dykes situation happening
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playmaker11
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Bundoora B
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+x+x+x[quote]Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Thought you may be interested to see these two articles. Anyone know if he ended up playing for the young socceroos? This is from Feb 2020
Manchester City rookie Robertson set for Australia debut
Manchester City youngster Alexander Robertson will make a keenly-anticipated debut for Australia when he steps out for the Young Socceroos in the Netherlands on Tuesday, giving oxygen to hopes he may not be lost to England after all.
The Scotland-born, Sydney-raised 16-year-old - viewed as a star in the making by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold and green and gold great Tim Cahill - has netted three goals in four appearances for the Three Lions at U-17 level, leading to the conclusion he had already made his choice over which nation to represent.But with father Mark and grandad Alex both former Socceroos, the temptation to follow in their footsteps appears alive and well.
Before heading to Manchester airport on Sunday to board a flight to join Gary van Egmond’s side for a friendly clash against FC Twente, Robertson told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “Spending a fair bit of my early years in Australia (from the age of four to 12), I’ve got a real connection with the country and making an appearance would definitely be an honour.“I’m looking forward to this chance and to hopefully show a bit of what I’m about.“It’s been a good season so far at club level - and I think my game’s been progressing pretty well (after a number of injury setbacks in recent years).”Van Egmond is assessing the merits of a 20-plus party of players at a talent identification camp in Netherlands, with a 1-0 win over FC Utrecht’s youngsters followed by a 4-0 loss to Ajax’s young guns on Saturday in a reminder of the gap between Europe’s best and brightest and Australia’s next gen hopefuls.
Pleased to have Robertson available after a number of false starts - alongside the likes of Southampton youngster Caleb Watts - van Egmond told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “We need to balance everything off in regard to what’s happening with him from the club at perspective.“The most important part of this is him, and ensuring the national team door is always open and we’re looking to see how we can best accommodate that.“There’s no pressure and it’s not a matter of him signing on the dotted line (in making an unequivocal commitment to Australia).“We’re welcoming (him) in, and like some of the others here he has opportunities with other national teams through family links.“It’s about showing them what it’s like, being as open as possible and seeing how it all works.“This is a training identification camp and we’ve had players from all over Europe coming in.“In Alex’s case, you’re not at Manchester City unless you’re a good player and it will be great to see him within our environment.“There are plenty of good players we need to find out about heading into October’s (AFC World Youth Cup) qualifiers in Uzbekistan.”
Robertson Sr, who played for Australia at the 1997 World Youth Cup, said: “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart.” Robertson signed a four-year deal at the Etihad last year, and has been called up by Pep Guardiola to train with City’s senior stars on several occasions this season, in recognition of his promise.City’s U-18s, for whom Robertson has been highly influential, top the league, are in the last eight of the FA Youth Cup and the final of the Premier League Youth Cup.
This is from April 2019 Meet Manchester City's teenage Aussie superstar in the making - David Weiner is the Editor of Optus Sport
Ask 15-year-old Australian Alexander Robertson where he sees himself in two years, and he doesn’t even flinch.“Playing (UEFA) Champions League football.”The teenager, from Maroubra in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has become one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. And that dream is anything but a fantasy. He is about to ink a four-year contract with Manchester City, while he also has landed a long-term contract with Adidas.The precocious talent, who was signed by City from Manchester United, is managed by former England, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, and was coveted by all of the Premier League’s top six clubs.He also comes from impeccable football pedigree.
His father Mark played for Australia. His grandfather, also named Alex, also represented the Socceroos. Could we be about to see the third generation in an incredible family dynasty wearing green and gold?It is complicated.Robertson has two caps for England’s under-16s, and has Peru and Scotland also vying for his talents along with Australia. He will have to make an early call ahead of the under-17 World Cup in Brazil. Although that decision will not be binding, at some point, he will have to decide where his heart lies.“There is a different gut feeling to every country,”
Robertson explained to Optus SportOptus Sport.“Australia: I’ve lived here, I’m from here.“Scotland: I was born there, my grandparents were born there.“Peru: My mum, my grandma, my great grandma – her side of the family are from there.“England: they’ve taken me in as a country.“It is just different for every country. Different aspects. I’ll just make a decision when I get there.”His father Mark, who represented Australia at every level and played club football in England and Scotland, adds: “If I was to advise him to play for a national team, a lot of that would come from the heart. Is that the right thing? I’m not sure, because he has got an element of feelings as well.“For me, there is no other place in the world that I would rather play for: the Socceroos, Joeys, Olyroos, Young Socceroos. I had great pride singing the national anthem but I didn’t live in a different country at 12 or live with people from different environments … I can only respect the choice he makes and will love and support him.”For now, Alexander’s priorities are to recover from an injury to make his way at the current Premier League leaders; where Pep Guardiola watches his sessions and games and where he has received special advice from captain Vincent Kompany on what it takes to make it at the juggernaut and break into a side bursting with the biggest stars on the planet.
The 15-year-old, who turns 16 later this month, started his overseas adventure when his family took the plunge and moved to England when he was 12. He had been playing club football at New South Wales National Premier League club Hakoah Sydney City, where his father was first grade coach, assisted by his grandfather, but moving to England, and getting experience at Manchester United was a whole new world.
Alexander reflects: “At Manchester United I learnt to be “brave” – football is a lot quicker in England.“I used to take a lot of touches, dribbling, that’s what I did in Australia. They explained how I need to move the ball quicker.” Mark adds: “There are people with negative mindsets to say would it be worth it for a 12-year-old to play football in Europe? “But we took the choice to commit to the young bloke’s future and as a family we felt like we made the right decision.” Ironically, it was a 6-1 loss playing for the Red Devils, against Manchester City, which changed things dramatically for the midfielder, whose hero was Steven Gerrard, and who cites former Socceroos Lucas Neill and Hayden Foxe as two of his key mentors growing up. On the way home from the game, his parents got a call from their opponents that day. Mark explains: “I know the main reason Manchester City really, really like him – he was playing for Manchester United and his team was getting beat 5-0 and when the fifth goal went in, Alexander sprinted into the net, picked the ball up and sprinted back to the halfway line and turned around gave words of encouragement to his teammates.“Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed. “Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed.“It is a great drive he has got, technically very good, great first touch, passing range with both feet, and most importantly he can score goals, which is important when he times his runs well into the box as a No.8 (midfielder) … It was a marriage made in heaven: They wanted a hard-working, technically gifted, goal scoring midfielder of his age group – it was fantastic how it worked out.” Manchester is a long way from Maroubra. But despite Alexander’s lofty ambitions, he remains grounded. And his dad is making sure of that. “I am just grateful to be a part of such a big club, like them, coming from Hakoah in Sydney. Going halfway across the world to that – it is unbelievable,” Alexander says. Mark adds: “Sometimes you’ve got to find the right door (at City’s training complex) to walk through because the complex is so massive! “I say to Alexander sometimes you have to not look at the façade, and say, having the Rolls Royce treatment, and five-star facilities and look beyond that and keep it real: every training session has to be of the highest order, at your best for each game. “Yes, Man City I’d say are the best facilities I have seen in my life. But the facilities are not what make the footballer. “The footballer is the one who makes the most out of the facilities.” If he does so, Champions League in two years?“I’ve got a tunnel vision just to be the best.” “I used to get photos with players but now nothing really fazes me. I’ve seen a lot of professional players – they are just another human being. I’ve met the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba, all of the Manchester United team but they are just normal people … “I aspire to be like them.” the interview is here https://m.facebook.com/watch/?v=385401672040074&_rdrhe sounds like he is definitely keeping his options open. and also playing an olympics for australia probably does not rate next to the possibility of playing euros for england. plus the value adding of being an 'english' player in england - the most overvalued and remunerated players in the world.
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Bunch of Hacks
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+x+x+x+x[quote]Has anyone seen his twitter profile. It has him playing for England with the an England youth side team photo as its backdrop. Dont get too excited, the only way this kid will play for Australia is if he isn’t good enough for England. Fair point, but all the more reason to roll out the welcome wagon. Call me biased as a Victory fan, but I'm worried that Arnie doesn't have the kind of personality that will woo guys who might be on the fence. Thought you may be interested to see these two articles. Anyone know if he ended up playing for the young socceroos? This is from Feb 2020
Manchester City rookie Robertson set for Australia debut
Manchester City youngster Alexander Robertson will make a keenly-anticipated debut for Australia when he steps out for the Young Socceroos in the Netherlands on Tuesday, giving oxygen to hopes he may not be lost to England after all.
The Scotland-born, Sydney-raised 16-year-old - viewed as a star in the making by Socceroos coach Graham Arnold and green and gold great Tim Cahill - has netted three goals in four appearances for the Three Lions at U-17 level, leading to the conclusion he had already made his choice over which nation to represent.But with father Mark and grandad Alex both former Socceroos, the temptation to follow in their footsteps appears alive and well.
Before heading to Manchester airport on Sunday to board a flight to join Gary van Egmond’s side for a friendly clash against FC Twente, Robertson told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “Spending a fair bit of my early years in Australia (from the age of four to 12), I’ve got a real connection with the country and making an appearance would definitely be an honour.“I’m looking forward to this chance and to hopefully show a bit of what I’m about.“It’s been a good season so far at club level - and I think my game’s been progressing pretty well (after a number of injury setbacks in recent years).”Van Egmond is assessing the merits of a 20-plus party of players at a talent identification camp in Netherlands, with a 1-0 win over FC Utrecht’s youngsters followed by a 4-0 loss to Ajax’s young guns on Saturday in a reminder of the gap between Europe’s best and brightest and Australia’s next gen hopefuls.
Pleased to have Robertson available after a number of false starts - alongside the likes of Southampton youngster Caleb Watts - van Egmond told The World GameThe World GameThe World Game: “We need to balance everything off in regard to what’s happening with him from the club at perspective.“The most important part of this is him, and ensuring the national team door is always open and we’re looking to see how we can best accommodate that.“There’s no pressure and it’s not a matter of him signing on the dotted line (in making an unequivocal commitment to Australia).“We’re welcoming (him) in, and like some of the others here he has opportunities with other national teams through family links.“It’s about showing them what it’s like, being as open as possible and seeing how it all works.“This is a training identification camp and we’ve had players from all over Europe coming in.“In Alex’s case, you’re not at Manchester City unless you’re a good player and it will be great to see him within our environment.“There are plenty of good players we need to find out about heading into October’s (AFC World Youth Cup) qualifiers in Uzbekistan.”
Robertson Sr, who played for Australia at the 1997 World Youth Cup, said: “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart. “From my point of view there’s a lot of pride in Alex heading off to represent Australia. “What this shows is that there is an intent there for Alex to potentially one day represent Australia at senior level.“I think this makes a statement that Australia is still in his heart.” Robertson signed a four-year deal at the Etihad last year, and has been called up by Pep Guardiola to train with City’s senior stars on several occasions this season, in recognition of his promise.City’s U-18s, for whom Robertson has been highly influential, top the league, are in the last eight of the FA Youth Cup and the final of the Premier League Youth Cup.
This is from April 2019 Meet Manchester City's teenage Aussie superstar in the making - David Weiner is the Editor of Optus Sport
Ask 15-year-old Australian Alexander Robertson where he sees himself in two years, and he doesn’t even flinch.“Playing (UEFA) Champions League football.”The teenager, from Maroubra in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has become one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. And that dream is anything but a fantasy. He is about to ink a four-year contract with Manchester City, while he also has landed a long-term contract with Adidas.The precocious talent, who was signed by City from Manchester United, is managed by former England, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen, and was coveted by all of the Premier League’s top six clubs.He also comes from impeccable football pedigree.
His father Mark played for Australia. His grandfather, also named Alex, also represented the Socceroos. Could we be about to see the third generation in an incredible family dynasty wearing green and gold?It is complicated.Robertson has two caps for England’s under-16s, and has Peru and Scotland also vying for his talents along with Australia. He will have to make an early call ahead of the under-17 World Cup in Brazil. Although that decision will not be binding, at some point, he will have to decide where his heart lies.“There is a different gut feeling to every country,”
Robertson explained to Optus SportOptus Sport.“Australia: I’ve lived here, I’m from here.“Scotland: I was born there, my grandparents were born there.“Peru: My mum, my grandma, my great grandma – her side of the family are from there.“England: they’ve taken me in as a country.“It is just different for every country. Different aspects. I’ll just make a decision when I get there.”His father Mark, who represented Australia at every level and played club football in England and Scotland, adds: “If I was to advise him to play for a national team, a lot of that would come from the heart. Is that the right thing? I’m not sure, because he has got an element of feelings as well.“For me, there is no other place in the world that I would rather play for: the Socceroos, Joeys, Olyroos, Young Socceroos. I had great pride singing the national anthem but I didn’t live in a different country at 12 or live with people from different environments … I can only respect the choice he makes and will love and support him.”For now, Alexander’s priorities are to recover from an injury to make his way at the current Premier League leaders; where Pep Guardiola watches his sessions and games and where he has received special advice from captain Vincent Kompany on what it takes to make it at the juggernaut and break into a side bursting with the biggest stars on the planet.
The 15-year-old, who turns 16 later this month, started his overseas adventure when his family took the plunge and moved to England when he was 12. He had been playing club football at New South Wales National Premier League club Hakoah Sydney City, where his father was first grade coach, assisted by his grandfather, but moving to England, and getting experience at Manchester United was a whole new world.
Alexander reflects: “At Manchester United I learnt to be “brave” – football is a lot quicker in England.“I used to take a lot of touches, dribbling, that’s what I did in Australia. They explained how I need to move the ball quicker.” Mark adds: “There are people with negative mindsets to say would it be worth it for a 12-year-old to play football in Europe? “But we took the choice to commit to the young bloke’s future and as a family we felt like we made the right decision.” Ironically, it was a 6-1 loss playing for the Red Devils, against Manchester City, which changed things dramatically for the midfielder, whose hero was Steven Gerrard, and who cites former Socceroos Lucas Neill and Hayden Foxe as two of his key mentors growing up. On the way home from the game, his parents got a call from their opponents that day. Mark explains: “I know the main reason Manchester City really, really like him – he was playing for Manchester United and his team was getting beat 5-0 and when the fifth goal went in, Alexander sprinted into the net, picked the ball up and sprinted back to the halfway line and turned around gave words of encouragement to his teammates.“Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed. “Maybe it was the determination that got him noticed.“It is a great drive he has got, technically very good, great first touch, passing range with both feet, and most importantly he can score goals, which is important when he times his runs well into the box as a No.8 (midfielder) … It was a marriage made in heaven: They wanted a hard-working, technically gifted, goal scoring midfielder of his age group – it was fantastic how it worked out.” Manchester is a long way from Maroubra. But despite Alexander’s lofty ambitions, he remains grounded. And his dad is making sure of that. “I am just grateful to be a part of such a big club, like them, coming from Hakoah in Sydney. Going halfway across the world to that – it is unbelievable,” Alexander says. Mark adds: “Sometimes you’ve got to find the right door (at City’s training complex) to walk through because the complex is so massive! “I say to Alexander sometimes you have to not look at the façade, and say, having the Rolls Royce treatment, and five-star facilities and look beyond that and keep it real: every training session has to be of the highest order, at your best for each game. “Yes, Man City I’d say are the best facilities I have seen in my life. But the facilities are not what make the footballer. “The footballer is the one who makes the most out of the facilities.” If he does so, Champions League in two years?“I’ve got a tunnel vision just to be the best.” “I used to get photos with players but now nothing really fazes me. I’ve seen a lot of professional players – they are just another human being. I’ve met the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba, all of the Manchester United team but they are just normal people … “I aspire to be like them.” the interview is here https://m.facebook.com/watch/?v=385401672040074&_rdrhe sounds like he is definitely keeping his options open. and also playing an olympics for australia probably does not rate next to the possibility of playing euros for england. plus the value adding of being an 'english' player in england - the most overvalued and remunerated players in the world. He's still 'english' though as far as the transfer market is concerned even if he plays for Australia given his British passport. Also has come through the english system. Modern day version of Kewell.
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playmaker11
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Jeggo assist
By now, American Samoa must have realised that Australias 22-0 win over Tonga two days earlier was no fluke.
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jas88
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I just can't see it, Alex will have be a worldie prospect for Pep to play him, that's the only reason Foden broke through was he is another level above the others.
He's starting KDB up front ahead of Delap. You need to be out of this world to break into that team.
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jas88
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+x+x+x+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21 CHO and Maddinson also. Cap him farken! Exactly!! He's not getting in there ahead of these guys. Kewell was eligible for England as well, imagine if we'd lost him? They took a punt, capped him while he was young & the rest is history Difference is 2003 Kewell would of started for England.
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sub007
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Jordan Murray with a goal and an assist. He seems to be thriving over in India.
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Barca4Life
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If there is any optimism to take out of Robertson is that England have an abundance of talent coming through these days, at worst I can see him playing for England's u21s side but then im not sure it guarantees him for senior football.
He can always switch unless England are happy with other options too which seems to be the case.
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Bunch of Hacks
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+x+x+x+x+xDoes anyone know the young English CMs around his age that he would be competing with? To get into the senior England side, he’d be competing with Jamal Musiala, Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, Harvey Elliot, Jude Bellingham, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Phil Foden, Curtis Jones, Emile Smith Rowe, Eberechi Eze, Jacob Ramsey, Cole Palmer, Fabio Carvalho amongst others ... this is pretty stuff competition, all under the age of 25, most under 21 CHO and Maddinson also. Cap him farken! Exactly!! He's not getting in there ahead of these guys. Kewell was eligible for England as well, imagine if we'd lost him? They took a punt, capped him while he was young & the rest is history Difference is 2003 Kewell would of started for England. Did Kewell debut in 2003? No, he debuted in april 1996 as an unknown 17 yr old with only 2 first team games under his belt. The next season (96/97) he only played 1 match for leeds then exploded on the scene in 1997/98 season. The point is Eddie Thompson had the foresight to lock him in at a young age. We did the same with Ikon and I'd argue Robertson is an even more outstanding prospect at a younger age. Absolutely nothing lost trying to cap him, and everything to gain ala kewell. If Thompson hadn't have capped kewell in 96, its likely he would have been capped by England in the 1997/98 or at least in 98/99. Had of we waited for him to 'make it' which happened in 97/98 he might have been tempted to hold off for an envitable England cap. As you said he most likely would have been england's LM from 98 to 2004
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