Football Australia welcome a number of new appointments to the Subway Socceroos’ coaching and support staff under the direction of Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach, Tony Popovic.

These appointments, set to commence with Football Australia on Tuesday 1 October, reflect Popovic’s vision for the Subway Socceroos as the team aims to qualify for the next FIFA World Cup™ in 2026.

The following individuals will join the Subway Socceroos’ coaching and support staff:

Assistant Coaches

Goalkeeper Coach

Specialist Roles

• Michael Mantikos – Team Analyst
• Julie Meek – Sports Dietician

Upon making these appointments, Subway Socceroos’ Head Coach Tony Popovic said: “I am excited to welcome these talented individuals to our team of coaching and support staff. Each of them brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will be instrumental in our journey ahead.

“Together, we will work tirelessly to develop a dynamic and competitive Subway Socceroos’ squad that embodies the spirit of Australian football. Our goal is to not only achieve success on the pitch but to also foster an environment where every player can thrive and reach their full potential,” Popovic explained.

Appointments in Detail:

Paul Okon – Assistant Coach

A former Socceroo (Socceroo Cap #377) with 28 caps, Paul Okon brings a wealth of international experience to the role. His playing career included stints with top European clubs, and he has previously coached the Young Socceroos and Olyroos, providing valuable insights into player development. Most recently, Okon was Head Coach at the Central Coast Mariners FC and Assistant Coach at Club Brugge KV (Belgium).

Hayden Foxe – Assistant Coach

Hayden Foxe joins from Western United FC, where he has been instrumental in nurturing young talent. Previous to Western United FC, Fox has held Senior Assistant Coach roles at Perth Glory FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC. A former Socceroo (Cap #441) himself, Foxe’s playing career spanned Europe, including the English Premier League.

Frank Juric – Goalkeeper Coach

Frank Juric, a former Socceroos’ goalkeeper (Socceroo Cap #411) with 10 caps, steps into the crucial role of Goalkeeper Coach. His 17-year playing career, including time in the German Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, equips him with the expertise to mentor Australia’s goalkeepers at the highest level.

Michael Mantikos – Team Analyst

Transitioning from Melbourne Victory FC, Michael Mantikos joins as the Subway Socceroos as Team Analyst. His skills in tactical analysis and performance data interpretation will provide Popovic and his staff with crucial insights for match preparation and player development.

Julie Meek – Sports Dietician

An Accredited Practising Dietitian and qualified Sports Dietitian, Julie Meek will oversee the squad’s nutritional needs. Her extensive knowledge and experience, including authoring two books on the subject, will ensure the Subway Socceroos maintain optimal nutrition for peak performance.

These new appointments underlines Football Australia’s and Popovic’s shared commitment to providing the Subway Socceroos with every possible advantage as they prepare for the remaining Round Three AFC Asian Qualifiers™.