Grant, 17, was set to be given the armband by Okon while 17-year-old Danning's star has risen considerably since scoring his debut A-League goal last Sunday in a 1-0 win over Wellington.

The pair have been part of Okon's plans up until now, but after last Sunday Sydney FC coach John Kosmina's has lobbied successful for the sky blue duo to be taken out of Okon's squad.

Kosmina now has his two young stars for the vital A-League match against Queensland Roar on Saturday. This has not gone down well with the former Socceroo captain.

"I'm not going to get into a country v club row, but I'd by lying if I said I wasn't disappointed," Okon said today.

"Obviously they are two players who in our eyes were starting XI players. In fact, Rhyan Grant would've been the captain.

"I think it's disappointing for me and for the two boys and the other 16 players. Everyone knew that these two players would hopefully be our two best performers.

"We always knew there'd be clashes [with clubs] but we didn't expect it to be a day out from the actual tournament.

"But we'll get on with cards we've been dealt with and hopefully the two boys who do come in their place take the opportunity."

The Youth Olympics football features players born in 1991 with the Aussies matched against China, Chile and the USA in a tournament that finishes on Sunday.

Okon takes on his debut coaching role as head coach together with his assistant Paul Foster.

The former Lazio star describes it as an opportunity for future stars to cement their reputations ahead of the next Young Socceroos squad.

And there are some other benefits. "I believe there'll be various people from clubs around the country looking for young players for next season, so there's opportunity there.

"I hope that the bulk of these young boys will make up the next Young Socceroos squad and hopefully be a part of the [Olyroo] team that plays in London."

Okon added: "There's a lot to play for but it's not about winning... but learning."

The Australians kick off their campaign against China on Thursday afternoon at Valentine Park, Glenwood.

Okon moves to the Gold Coast in April to take up his full-time role as assistant to Miron Bleiberg at boom A-League club Gold Coast United.