Juric entered the Socceroos Antalya-based training camp carrying a slight injury, which had ruled about for two months in the Swiss Super League.

Juric now appears unlikely to make the World Cup, although Bert van Marwijk is remaining optimistic. Darmstadt 08 striker Maclaren, who was prolific on loan to Scottish club Hibernian leading into the training camp, has been selected as his replacement

Maclaren ended the Scottish Premier League season with eight goals in 15 appearances, including a final day hat-trick against Rangers.

Van Marwijk said Maclaren's inclusion will give the striker the chance to prove his worth, leaving open the possibility of taking both to Russia.

“Tomi Juric has had a knee issue over the last three weeks which is being monitored by our medical team,” he said. 

“We hope that Tomi will be able to train and play this week, but his recovery might also take longer.

"That is why we have decided to bring in Jamie Maclaren now, so that he also has a fair chance to display his qualities before the final 23 player squad must be announced.”

If Juric has to be withdrawn from the squad, it poses a substantial change in Bert van Marwijk's preparations. The Dutchman appeared to prefer Juric's height and strength from set-pieces as the Socceroos' weapon entering Russia, traits Maclaren lacks.

However, the 24-year-old's speed and technical ability, in addition to a goal-scoring record that far outweighs Juric's more all-round approach, offers its own advantages.

Likewise, the additional pace alongside Mathew Leckie, Robbie Kruse, Nikita Rukavytsya and Andrew Nabbout may allows for a more penetrative, behind-the-lines counter-attacking outfit.