Cummings is excited by Socceroos Wonderkid Robertson

If the hype around potential Manchester City player Alex Robertson is justified, the Socceroos’ biggest win in this month’s international window may not be on the pitch.

Australia boss Graham Arnold recently secured a four-legged tug-of-war victory for the 19-year-old’s international loyalty and has already highlighted just how important Robertson thinks he can be.

The midfielder was born in Scotland but grew up in Sydney, and Arnold has likened him to City star Kevin De Bruyne, with the prospect of winning his first international cap in Friday’s friendly against Ecuador at Companc Stadium.

It’s the latest civil coup in Arnold’s tenure after securing the services of foreign-born players like Harry Souttar, Martin Boyle and Jason Cummings, who got a unique view of Robertson’s potential.

“Alex is a good lad, he was at Ross County on loan – my uncle is a manager there – and we were talking about it,” Cummings said.

“He’s clearly a top player with a bright future.”

With Robertson closing in on Australia’s plans, Arnold has publicly stated his interest in the Italy-eligible pair, Alessandro Circati and Christian Volpato.

“There are a lot of great Australian players and it’s a tough job, but he (Arnold) is going to love it,” Cummings said.

“There will be a new crop coming up with a lot of talent.

“That’s what we’re focusing on now, the future – these friendlies, the Asian Cup (in 2024) and then the World Cup in four years’ time.

“It is up to these men and their families to decide (where their loyalties lie).

“I love him here and it’s a great family environment.

“For me it was a no-brainer because Scotland don’t qualify for the World Cup.”