A surprise choice by Socceroos coach Guus Hiddink, with Milligan having not made his international debut when the 23-man squad was confirmed. The Sydney FC stopper made his mark for the national Under-23 side and an injury to veteran Tony Vidmar allowed him to take his place on the plane to Germany. Milligan's versatility also counted in his favour, with the youngster able to fill in at right-back, centre-back or as a holding midfielder.