Manchester United defender James Overy has been named in the Australia senior squad for the first time. The young full-back, turning 18 this Sunday, received an early birthday gift with his inclusion for friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia later this month.
Born in Perth, Overy joined Manchester United in 2024 and has shown promising development at Carrington. He recently represented Australia at the Under-20 World Cup, and senior coach Tony Popovic, a former Premier League player with Crystal Palace, plans to evaluate the teenager during the two matches in the United States.
“It’s another opportunity to expand the depth and introduce players who have not yet been exposed to the Socceroos environment or senior international football,” Popovic said when announcing the squad.
This season, Overy has appeared for Manchester United's Under-18 and Under-21 teams. Australia is preparing for next year's World Cup finals in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Summary: James Overy’s inclusion in Australia’s senior squad highlights the nation’s focus on integrating young talent as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup.