Melbourne Victory defender Thomas Deng has been called into the Caltex Socceroos squad for Wednesday morning’s (AEST) FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ qualifier against Kuwait.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) made the announcement on Monday, with Deng replacing injured skipper Mark Milligan.

Milligan has succumbed to a minor leg injury and has returned to his League One club Southend United.

“We didn’t want to take any risks with Mark so we arranged for him to travel back to his club for ongoing care,” Caltex Socceroos Head Coach Graham Arnold said.

“Thomas was with us in October and November last year, and in June in Busan.

“He has now arrived in Kuwait and will provide a great defensive option for our squad.”



Deng arrives in the Middle East after spending the last week in camp with Australia’s U-23 squad in Wollongong.

And his arrival in Kuwait is sure to bring back fond memories for the versatile 22-year-old.

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It was in Kuwait City in 2018 that Deng made his full senior international team debut with the Caltex Socceroos.

Deng was a second-half substitute, replacing Josh Risdon as Australia overcame Kuwait 4-0 in an international friendly.