Rising Star James Overy Receives Socceroos Call-Up

James Overy participated in two group matches at the recent Under-20 World Cup.

At just 18 years old, the right-back has yet to make his senior debut and only joined Manchester United last summer. Remarkably, he was born after Australia made their first World Cup appearance in 2006.

Overy, who played for United’s Under-18 side against Leeds on Saturday, has now been called up to the Socceroos squad for upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia in the United States.

Originally from Perth Glory, Overy relocated to Devon in 2023, where he played for Newton Abbot Spurs in the South West Peninsula League before being signed by United’s academy a year later.

A significant Achilles tendon injury temporarily hindered Overy’s development, but his talent has shone through during his time with United, where he has competed at both Under-18 and Under-21 levels, even facing senior teams in the National League Cup against Tamworth and Rochdale.

Known for his speed, Overy excels at covering central defenders and making forward runs. His recent call-up is largely attributed to his performances at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile, despite Australia not advancing beyond the group stage.

“He’s worth having a look at,” stated Australia coach Tony Popovic regarding the young talent, who has yet to feature in a matchday squad for the United senior team. “I’m open-minded about what that looks like for the immediate future and long-term. I was impressed while watching him closely in Chile. We have good contacts at Manchester United, so we are aware of his progress in training. He is being called up to first-team training more frequently.”

Overy is one of seven uncapped players in the Australian squad as Popovic aims to strengthen the team’s depth before next summer’s World Cup, marking the seventh consecutive tournament Australia has qualified for.

Additionally, Overy is eligible to represent Scotland, having played for their Under-19 team. Interestingly, he could potentially make his senior international debut alongside fellow full-back Diego Leon (Paraguay) and winger James Scanlon (Gibraltar) before ever appearing in a first-team match for Manchester United.