The 19-year-old is a regular with the Socceroos and impressed at the World Cup in the summer

Hull City now look unlikely to lose star defender Lucas Herrington for a month early next year, after the decision was taken to postpone the Asian Cup.

Owing to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, it was decided that the competition in Saudi Arabia would be shelved until the end of next year, with a new date of December 2027 until late January 2028.

The Asian Cup had originally been scheduled to run between January 7 and February 5 2027, meaning Herrington would miss at least seven Premier League games, plus an FA Cup third-round tie. While he hasn't been in the Japan fold in recent weeks and missed out on the World Cup, Hidemasa Morita would also miss a huge chunk of the campaign, should he have been recalled to the national team setup.

The decision, which has now been made, means the hugely talented Australian international will remain at City for a crucial period in their Premier League campaign, which sees them come up against the likes of Sunderland, Nottingham Forest, Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the start of the New Year.

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“Following extensive discussions and close consultation with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed today that the upcoming edition of Asia’s crown jewel, originally to be held from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028," a statement read.

“The organising committee for AFC Asian Cup approved to reschedule the flagship national team tournament in light of the current exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region, including substantial logistical complexities and travel disruptions. The new dates of the tournament will be presented to FIFA for approval.

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“Exceptional circumstances have been created for the organisation and delivery of the Competition as originally scheduled, making the postponement necessary in the interest of all participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders.

“The AFC commends SAFF and the LOC for their commitment to delivering a world-class tournament for the Continent’s players and fans.

“The AFC will continue to work closely with the LOC, Participating Member Associations and its valued sponsors and broadcast and commercial partners and all stakeholders to stage a showpiece befitting the stature and operational excellence synonymous with Asia’s most prestigious men’s national team competition, while minimising the impact of the postponement. Further updates will be communicated through the AFC’s official channels.”