Portsmouth favourite handed maiden international bow after outstanding Championship emergence

Portsmouth striker Thomas Waddingham has earned his maiden senior international call-up for Australia following an impressive run of form in the Championship. The 21-year-old forward scored two goals in four league games after overcoming an ankle injury that kept him out of Pompey's opening 10 matches. Australia head coach Tony Popovic included him in the 25-man Socceroos squad alongside former Portsmouth teammate Kusini Yengi.

Waddingham's emergence comes after an injury-hit spell following his January 2025 arrival at Fratton Park, including seven months out last season with a quad issue. Portsmouth manager John Mousinho noted that the club is carefully managing the young forward's workload as he works toward full fitness, praising his technical ability, strength, and impact around the penalty box.