Young Sharks star selected for Under 20 Iranian squad

The 18-year-old caught the attention of Iranian representatives after enduring a sterling season with the Sharks? Under 20?s squad which also saw him play a handful of senior games for Brian Brown?s team where he even got on the scoresheet on his debut against the West Sydney Berries in Round 10 of the TeleChoice Premier League.
The former Sydney Olympic and St George junior stated his delight upon receiving the call-up but stated the tough conditions he faced in his parents native country.
?I was delighted when I received a letter and phone call that Iran were interested in me.
?I am thankful to the Sharks team and coach Steve Karavatakis as I believed we had a pretty good season.
?Conditions here in Iran have been hard to deal with though as it?s been very hot and humid. Playing style wise, the Iranians love to play with the ball and that is something I have noticed that?s been different to what I was used to in Australia.
?They?ve accepted me though which is a great sign and I am putting in my all in wanting to make the final squad for the AFC Championships coming up later this year.?
Aram stated his ambition to stay with the Sutherland Sharks with the hope of winning a first team contract for 2009, however Iranian powerhouse side Sepahan FC have already been alerted to the youngster?s ability and have asked to trial him during his time with the Iranian U20s squad.
Sharks Under 20 coach Steve Karavatakis was pleased that Aram gained the call-up to the Iranian squad.
?Aram had a great year for us this season.
?He scored a fair few of our goals and has really improved as a player since coming to the side at the start of the year.
?I really wish him all the best with his future endeavours in Iran.?
It?s been reported that the local Iranian media have been rather curious with the young Sharks star as he has appeared in a number of newspaper and magazine stories since arriving in Iran a week ago.
-By Mark Stavroulakis