Overview
- Popovic, who spoke Monday in Sydney, said it would be wonderful if President Donald Trump watched the June 19 match in Seattle because his presence would spur the team.
- He said the U.S. political climate does not worry him and that security and travel plans are in hand after smooth tours last October and November.
- The coach will link up in Sarasota, Florida this week with staff and eight early arrivals for a pre-selection camp before more players finish club duty.
- Centre-back Harry Souttar and winger Mathew Leckie remain in contention if they prove fitness in Florida, with Souttar returning after an Achilles injury and Leckie coming back from hip surgery.
- The comments follow last week’s remarks from midfielder Jackson Irvine, who said FIFA’s new Peace Prize for Trump mocked its Human Rights Policy and raised concern for LGBT rights in the U.S.