Asian Football Confederation president Mohamed bin Hammam has welcomed the addition of Australia to the AFC, admitting their presence will help boost the profile of football in Asia.
The Socceroos were accepted into the confederation in January 2006 and will participate in their first AFC Asian Cup this month, starting against Oman on Sunday.
Interest in Graham Arnold's side has been high, and Bin Hammam admitted their place in the competition has whetted fans' appetite for the event.
"Australia have had a big impact on the competition," he said at a press conference in Bangkok. "I think Australia have put in the necessary flavour to the Asian Cup competition.
"I believe the fans in Asia are looking forward to seeing how Australia are going to compete in the competition.
"From my point of view it was the best move we ever took to invite Australia."
Interest in Graham Arnold's side has been high, and Bin Hammam admitted their place in the competition has whetted fans' appetite for the event.
"Australia have had a big impact on the competition," he said at a press conference in Bangkok. "I think Australia have put in the necessary flavour to the Asian Cup competition.
"I believe the fans in Asia are looking forward to seeing how Australia are going to compete in the competition.
"From my point of view it was the best move we ever took to invite Australia."
Copyright (c) Press Association
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