Seven players were cut from the 30-man squad which was originally announced last week - Nathan Burns, Alex Gersbach, Craig Goodwin, Chris Ikonomidis, Matt McKay and uncapped men Awer Mabil and Ryan Edwards.

The Socceroos boss named a total of five uncapped players in the squad - Mustafa Amini, Jimmy Jeggo, Rhyan Grant, McGree and Danny Vukovic.

McGree’s inclusion shocked many on social media including the Reds youngster himself, but the Socceroos boss was ready for healthy competition in the squad and was also happy with the depth in midfield.

“Like all young guys, (McGree has) a bit of energy and enthusiasm, he’ll be buzzing to get in,” Postecoglou said.

“From my perspective that was the whole intent of this squad, to make sure everyone is on their toes. Sometimes you see an 18-year-old walk through the door it gives everyone a bit of a reality check.

“The talent doesn’t stop coming and opportunities will come for everyone and I’m sure he’ll bring that.”

Ange looking for vibrant youth

Melbourne Victory striker James Troisi will now potentially play his first game for the Socceroos in over a year and has maintained consistency for his club this season and Postecoglou believed his best football could do wonders for the national team.

The Socceroos boss urged fans to see Sydney FC man Rhyan Grant’s capabilities. He also said striker Tomi Juric is ready to “take the next step” in his career for both Swiss side FC Luzern and Australia.

Postecoglou also spoke of uncapped Amini who is now 23-years-old, was strongly touted as a future Socceroo when he joined Borussia Dortmund from Central Coast Mariners and is now playing regularly for Danish side Aarhus.

“He’s (Amini) the one that’s been showing a little bit of maturity now,” he said.

“He’s getting into that bracket of experience and age where I think he’s looking to take his game to another level.

“Coming into this camp he’s going to get measured because we’ve got some really strong midfield options there. I’ll be interested to see how he stacks up against them, but he’s earnt a shot at it and he’ll bring that in.”

Amini in action for the Olyroos in January, last year

He also explained the thought process in picking Aziz Behich and Brad Smith and omitting Alex Gersbach.

“Alex is going well, they’re in pre-season. With Alex being in pre-season, Brad hasn’t played a lot and I really couldn’t carry both of them into this squad,” he said.

“Aziz is going really well to be fair to him. Brad has a little bit more experience and no doubt Alex will be part of what we do moving forward.”

Postecoglou wanted players who were enthusiastic as Australia will play in competitive qualifying matches, a friendly against Brazil as well as the 2017 Confederations Cup where the Socceroos have drawn Cameroon, Chile and Germany.

 “It’s a big year and you can’t look too far ahead, you have to look at what’s ahead of you but there’s no doubt there’s some fantastic challenges along the way,” Postecoglou said.

“These guys get the first opportunity to say they want to be part of that and make an impact. I’m after guys who are really ambitious and not just want to rack up caps, but actually want to make an impact in the national team – well this is the year to do it, 2017.

“It can be a massive year for us and hopefully all the players… I know they are, but most of the players, staff and everyone involved is pretty excited by it.”