Gutted Martin Boyle has been forced to withdraw from Australia's World Cup due to a knee injury.
The Hibs hero was in line to star for the Socceroos in Qatar but has been unable to recover in time after flying out to Qatar with his international team-mates. Australia boss Graham Arnold rued his absence. He said “We all feel for Martin and it is a cruel blow for him on the eve of the World Cup. He has been an integral part of our journey to get to Qatar and we thank him for everything he has given the Socceroos during this campaign. We also thank his club, who have done everything possible from their end to try and help with Martin’s recovery.”
Former Hibs star Jamie Maclaren was hopeful the striker could make it, he said: “I saw Boyley running yesterday just through the window of my room and Ajden as well,” Maclaren said. ”From my eyes they looked good but I think the medical staff will make a call whenever they can. But they are two huge players for us and exciting players and players that have played a big part in the last four years. And from where I stand now, I think they’ll be okay.”
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