Ex-Palace defender Popovic named Australia coach

Image caption, Tony Popovic played for Australia in the 2006 World CupFormer Crystal Palace defender Tony Popovic has been named Australia's head coach following the resignation of Graham Arnold.

Arnold stepped down last Friday after six years in the role following a shock 1-0 home defeat against Bahrain and a draw against Indonesia in World Cup qualifying earlier in September.

Those results have left Australia fifth in the Asia standings, with only the top two teams automatically qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

The 51-year-old, who played 58 times for the Socceroos, has signed a two-year deal.

"It's a role that comes with great responsibility, and I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity,"…