Who is Harry Souttar, Australia's towering defender at AFC Asian Cup 2023?

Harry Souttar has the experience of playing against Lionel Messi and his presence will help the Australian backline in the AFC Asian Cup!

As the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 unfolds, the spotlight falls on the seasoned defender, Harry Souttar, emerging as a linchpin in Australia’s formidable squad. Possessing a versatile skill set, Souttar’s wealth of experience and defending prowess positions him as a key figure poised to lead Australia’s charge for another historic title. 

With Australia already boasting four AFC Asian Cup championships, Souttar’s presence further bolsters their quest for another triumph. His defensive resilience and ability to contribute offensively make him a vital asset, elevating Australia’s chances in the tournament. As the curtains rise, Souttar’s role becomes pivotal in shaping Australia’s campaign.

Here we at Khel Now look at what Harry Souttar will bring to the table in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2023.

Prior Experience

Hailing from Luthermuir in Aberdeenshire, Harry Souttar’s football odyssey commenced with Brechin City Boys Club, affiliated with Celtic, before Dundee United recognized his talent. Despite being eligible for Scotland, Souttar switched allegiance to Australia, affording him the opportunity to compete in a World Cup. Joining Stoke City at 17, he honed his skills with loan spells at Ross County and Fleetwood Town, where he garnered attention, winning the EFL Young Player of the Month in February 2020.

Stoke City, with Souttar’s presence in the backline, enjoyed defensive prowess, conceding only 19 goals in 17 matches, reaching fifth place in the Championship. However, an ACL injury posed a setback. Undeterred, Souttar bounced back, showcasing stellar performances for Australia in Qatar (FIFA World Cup 2022).

His journey continued with Leicester City in January 2023. Despite an unfortunate own goal in his first appearance against Aston Villa, Souttar earned praise for his overall display.

Standing at 1.98 metres, Souttar is Australia’s second tallest national team player. Notably, he qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with the Olyroos, beating Argentina in the group stage but falling short of medal contention. His defensive prowess earned him a spot in Australia’s FIFA World Cup 2022 squad, receiving acclaim for his performances in the tournament. 

Type of Player

Harry Souttar, a pivotal force in the Socceroos’ recent FIFA World Cup success, embodies a rising star in the footballing arena. At an imposing 6.6ft height, he stands as the tallest figure in Leicester City’s senior squad, showcasing his physical prowess as a centre-back. 

Souttar’s on-field presence is characterised by his aerial dominance, exemplified by winning headers and adeptly blocking crosses. The Socceroos relied on his physicality for victory in the FIFA World Cup. The Scottish-born centre-back demonstrates fearlessness, winning numerous tackles and ground duels.

A towering titan of defensive fortitude, Souttar not only anchors the defence with calm and cool composure but also contributes offensively. His goal-scoring prowess, particularly with headers, is evident in his impressive tally of 10 goals in just 22 appearances for the Australian national team. Souttar’s dynamic skill set makes him a formidable force on both ends of the pitch, marking him as a player of significant impact and promise.

What does he bring to the team?

In the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2023, Harry Souttar is poised to bring a unique blend of defensive prowess, aerial dominance, and goal-scoring proficiency to the Socceroos. Souttar’s towering presence will be a formidable asset in both defensive clearances and offensive set-pieces, adding an extra dimension to Australia’s strategy. 

His experience, having been a key part of the Socceroos’ stellar FIFA World Cup display, will provide stability and leadership at the heart of the defence. Souttar’s ability to win headers, block crosses, and throw himself into tackles with reckless abandon makes him a defensive stalwart. 

Additionally, his proficiency in scoring goals, positions him as a potent offensive threat. As a linchpin in Australia’s squad, Souttar’s contributions are anticipated to play a pivotal role in their quest for yet another success in the AFC Asian Cup.

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