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Grant delivers again for Socceroos

3 minute read

Less than a year after making his international debut, Sydney FC right-back Rhyan Grant has become an automatic selection for Australia.

RHYAN GRANT
RHYAN GRANT Picture: Mark Evans/Getty Images

It's taken less than a year for Rhyan Grant to become un-droppable for the Socceroos.

The Sydney FC fullback had a hand in at least two goals in Tuesday's 7-1 World Cup qualifying win over Taiwan, continuing his fine form since debuting for Australia against Lebanon last November.

The 28-year-old has since usurped Josh Risdon as Australia's starting right-back and now has 11 caps to his name.

A crucial player in Graham Arnold's Sydney FC team, Grant is now performing a similar role with aplomb for the national team.

His boundless energy allows him to bomb forward as an extra attacker with quality delivery while also being resolute defensively.

Grant says having to wait for his national team chance, especially after a pair of anterior cruciate ligament injuries, is a big part behind his easy acclimation into international football.

"I've got a handful of games now under my belt," Grant told AAP.

"I think it helps I was a little bit older when I made my debut, you don't stress too much, you sort of just take it in your stride.

"Personally I'm pretty happy with how things are going. Just happy to be here and just keep rolling with it."

Grant's latest international call-up meant he was one of three A-League players to miss the start of the domestic season in Australia.

Sydney FC teammate Andrew Redmayne and Melbourne City striker Jamie Maclaren were also unavailable for the first weekend.

Maclaren will return to City on a high after scoring four goals in a week for the Socceroos and Grant also believes he's taking confidence with him into Sunday's home game against Wellington.

"Obviously it would've been nice to play the first game of the A-League but it didn't work out that way," Grant said.

"You can't complain too much when you're away with the national team. A couple of good wins so definitely a bit of confidence there heading into the A-League."

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