Gleeson, 21, is applying for a permanent residence in the United States where he plays for Major League Soccer’s Portland Timbers but the process has taken longer than expected, thus grounding the one-cap international until the procedure is completed.
Basalaj, currently in Melbourne with the New Zealand Olympic squad ahead of a second clash against the Saudi Arabia national team, impressed at last year’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico and earned a call up for the U-20 event in Colombia.
He was linked with a move to Scottish giants Glasgow Rangers before the true extent of the club’s well-documented financial difficulties emerged over recent days.
All Whites coach Ricki Herbert says it is a big opportunity for the 17-year-old Team Wellington gloveman.
“Scott did very well for the under-17s and attracted the interest of overseas clubs in the process,” Herbert says.
“He’s trained with the Phoenix on occasion and has done very well, he’s got a bright future and I’m sure he’ll do well with Mark and goalkeeping coach Clint Gosling.
“Jake will be disappointed to miss an opportunity to push his claims but it means another talented youngster gets to step into the environment and potentially get a taste of international football.”
ASB Summer International
New Zealand v Jamaica
Mt Smart Stadium
February 29, 2012
Kick-off: 7.30pm
Ticket details
Reserved seating: Adults $29, Children $15
Embankment: Adults $25, Children $10, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $60
To purchase tickets click here
Corporate Lounge: $99 (includes carvery)
Corporate boxes: 12 person – $1600, 16 person – $2500, 26 person – $3500
Purchase from www.mtsmartstadium.com www.mtsmartstadium.com
Getaway packages
Flights and match ticket packages available from https://grabaseat.co.nz/secure/getaways
Story courtesy of New Zealand Football.
For more on New Zealand football go to www.nzfootball.co.nz

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