But it’s not the first time the Socceroos will head into a World Cup with a relatively new coach. In fact, it’ll be the third time in four campaigns it’s happened, so it’s not unchartered territory.

Complicating matters is the lack of games before the World Cup, with Australia not due to play again until March, unlike when Guus Hiddink took over from Frank Farina in 2005.

There’s also the Asian Cup defence in the UAE in January 2019 to consider, as well as the early December 2018 World Cup draw which may lob us in another ‘group of death’, meaning priorities may need to be adjusted.

Do the FFA chase a short-term high-profile European ala Hiddink in 2005/2006 or look to maintain Ange’s process with some of his trusted Aussie advisors?

THE CANDIDATES

Graham Arnold

Sydney FC boss who has enjoyed unbelievable success over the past six months, lifting all three domestic titles and guiding the Sky Blues to a record-breaking 2016-17 campaign. The 2017-18 side has shown few signs of falling away too, although that may tempt him to stay where he is. Arnold was Socceroos boss during the disappointing 2007 Asian Cup campaign, but has improved markedly as a coach since. Won’t be an Ange-clone, which may not suit the short timeframes.

Tony Popovic

Recently left Western Sydney to take up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to coach a European club. Off-field issues have plagued Turkish club Karabukspor since Popovic’s arrival, clouding his future, with the club’s entire board resigning recently. Karabukspor have lost their past four Super Lig matches and are in the drop zone, meaning Popovic may soon be available. Popovic’s success at WSW, famously winning the ACL along with the A-League premiership at the club’s first attempt, will likely outweigh failing in Turkey.