After recently enjoying time in the Australian U23 set-up, Kye Rowles has now been called up to the Australian National Team for the next round of Asian Qualifiers.
Kye joined the Mariners in 2017 after having a brief stint at Brisbane Roar and since then has racked up over 80 appearances for the Yellow and Navy and played every minute of every Mariners match this season, including an appearance in the FFA Cup Quarter Final as the captain.
At the back end of last season, Rowles picked up the prestigious Mariners Medal which is an award that recognises the player who in the eyes of their team-mates, coaches and fans, had the best season.
A quiet achiever who doesn’t like being in the limelight off the field, leads by example on the field and lately has been very deserving of his call up to Graham Arnold’s national team.
Having experienced the Australian set-up as recently as June for the Summer Olympics with the U23 side, the 23-year-old is relishing the chance to do it once more.
“I am super happy to be given the opportunity, and I am really looking forward to the experience. It is a massive honour to represent your country and I am humbled to be involved in the Australian set up once again.
“I would also like to say a special thank you to everyone that has helped me along my footballing path, as without their dedication and time, I would not be in the position that I am today.”
Mariners Head Coach Nick Montgomery was delighted that Kye received the recognition for being one of the best and most consistent centre backs in the league.
“I am super proud of him, but not just myself, the whole staff and playing group can recognise his consistent performances over the last few months.
“It’s great that Graham Arnold has been watching the A-League and giving talents like Kye an opportunity on the biggest stage because he deserves it on current form with the hard work he has put in and I can’t wait to see him take his game to another level.
“We hope that this is the start of more players for the Mariners being recognised for national team selection not just at senior level, but also youth level” Montgomery said.
Rowles will play this weekend against Melbourne City before joining the camp for the next two qualifiers against Vietnam and Oman. Kye will return in time for the FFA Cup final which is scheduled for early to mid-February and will be confirmed in due course.
