Michael Boxall’s recent injury has sent the OlyWhites into a tizz as they wait to find out if he will be able to join the team at the Tokyo Olympics later this month. The club’s coach has expressed his doubts about whether Boxall will be able to join the team. NZ Football has, however, stated that they will not be able to replace him.
The centre back is one of three overage players in the All-Whites that had been announced for the tournament, which is usually an under-24 event. While playing for Minnesota United, his American club, he suffered a thigh injury. The media has since spotted him jogging during training, but he was not on the field when the team played on Thursday. His coach Adrian Heath told reporters that he has got a problem and will more than likely not be heading to the Olympics.
While Boxall was ready to leave for Japan after Thursday’s match, but a NZ Football spokesperson has said that they are monitoring the situation and has not yet indicated if he will be playing against South Korea in two weeks. Unfortunately, the players for the Olympics are already locked in and as such means that the team will not be able to replace Boxall.
The cautious use of certain terms by officials involved hints at the fact that his involvement with the team is still under discussion. The extent of his leg injury is another topic that remains under wraps during this time. If he does not play, George Stanger and Nando Pijnaker will more than likely be asked to step up. Gianni Stensness also has the necessary experience to assist the club.
As the Olympic football tournament approaches, online sports betting platforms are seeing increased activity, with fans eager to place bets on the OlyWhites’ performance. NFL betting has also surged recently, reflecting a broader trend in online sports betting where major international events draw significant interest.
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| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
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