Joeys coach Brad Maloney - who doubled up as a Socceroos assistant in the recent World Cup qualifiers against Bangladesh and Palestine - has expressed surprise at Monza fledgling Danilo Treffiletti joining the Azzurri U-16s squad for their latest camp, especially since he’s already been capped by Australia.

But he hasn’t given up hope of bringing the gifted 15 year old back into the fold, at the same time as reaching out to Liverpool academy striker Marcus Neill, whom he watched in person in the UK last month sitting alongside his famous father Lucas.

Maloney is eager to nail down both for games in Europe in April as he looks to unveil the next wave of Aussie talent.

Addressing what could be a tricky situation with Treffiletti, who excelled in games against Uzbekistan and Morocco in Turkey back in February, Maloney told FTBL: “He’s a good kid who did really well and didn’t look out of place playing against guys two years older than him.

“So, for me, he’s 100 per cent in my plans moving forward. It was a bit of a surprise to see him called up for Italy but we’ll see how that all pans out.

“He’s a creative No.8 who grew up in Sydney with Italian heritage, and he’s been over in Italy about four years now.

“I’ll continue to follow his progress and I’m in communication with his family - I’m happy for him of course but also like to see him wearing the green and gold. He’s definitely in my plans for our overseas tour next year.”

Another name tentatively pencilled in is that of Neill junior, who impressed Maloney with his pace and finishing prowess.

“I saw Marcus play for the Academy team when I was over in the UK, and he scored a goal and has a good all-round game,” he added.

“I watched him alongside Lucas and we had a good chat. Marcus is also eligible for England, but he’s another I’d like to bring on board.

“He is quite physical, makes good runs off the ball and would be an asset, that’s for sure. He’s an out and out striker who has lots of potential.

“This camp we’re planning will give us a chance to look at eligible youngsters who are based abroad and we’ll try and take a look at as many as we can, and see how they fit in.