Football is one of the best sports in Australia, characterized by a commitment to grassroots development, a broad fan base, competitive leagues, and a rich history. To experience the Australian football culture, get a visa Australia and visit the country during the Australian football league season, which typically runs between May and October.
Over time, Australia has produced football stars, representing top clubs worldwide, including Liverpool FC. This article highlights common Australian-born footballers who have played for the Reds.
Harry Kewell
Harry Kewell was born on 22 September 1978 in Sydney, Australia. He showed interest in football at quite a young age and later joined Marconi Stallions youth academy in Sydney, where his career began. He rose swiftly through the ranks and attracted the attention of scouts who helped his career grow.
In 2003, he joined Liverpool FC during the team’s transitional period and was regarded as a crucial addition to manager Gérard Houllier’s effort to rebuild the team.
He made 138 appearances in all competitions for the Anfield club and scored 16 goals. Harry was a key member of Rafa Benitez squad that won the UEFA Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup in 2006. Unfortunately, he was mostly injured in his last two seasons at Liverpool and left in 2008.
Brad Smith
Born on 9 April 1994 in Penrith, Australia, Brad Smith is one of the best Australian-born football players who have ever played for the Merseysiders. He started playing football in his hometown and later joined the Liverpool FC youth academy in 2008 when he was only 14.
The academy nurtured his talent, and he progressed quickly through the club’s rank system. His made his Reds debut 2013 but only managed to make 11 appearances in all competitions before leaving in 2016.
Nicky Rizzo
Nicky Rizzo was born on 9 June 1979 in Sydney, Australia, where he spent most of his childhood. In 1996, he moved to England and joined Liverpool FC, where he started his senior football career. However, not many people know this fact since he didn’t make any appearances on the field despite being a good football player.
Later in 1998, Rizzo went on to join Crystal Palace and he featured in 36 league games for the Eagles.
Brad Jones
Brad Jones was born in Armadale, Western Australia, on 19 March 1982. He moved to Middlesbrough Academy in England when he was 16, where he played as the backup goalkeeper.
Middlesbrough significantly shaped Brad’s football career. In 2010, he signed a contract with Liverpool as a substitute goalkeeper to Pepe Reina, and his debut was in a Europa League game against Rabotnicki.
During his time at the club, he made few appearances due to Reina’s presence, but he still gave his best and was part of the Liverpool team that won the 2011–2012 League Cup. He left the club in 2015 after making 27 appearances in all competitions for the Reds.
