Just In; Sunderland player drops out international squad with ‘things on his mind’ amid Hibs transfer speculation
Hibs Loan Star Withdraws from Australia Squad Amid Uncertain Future
Nectar Triantis spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Hibernian from Sunderland, but his future remains up in the air.
Australia head coach Tony Popovic has confirmed that Triantis has withdrawn from the national team’s training camp, as speculation swirls around his next move.
The 21-year-old was instrumental during his loan spell at Easter Road, where he was successfully transitioned from centre-back to dynamic midfielder and helped guide Hibs to a third-place finish in the Scottish Premiership.
Hibs are reportedly eager to bring him back for a third stint, though he has now returned to his parent club Sunderland following the conclusion of the campaign.
Triantis was initially named in the Australia squad for an upcoming training camp, joining Hibs teammates Lewis Miller, Jack Iredale, and Martin Boyle.
However, Popovic revealed that the player — who is also eligible to represent Greece — made the decision to withdraw at the last minute, citing personal uncertainty.
Popovic on Triantis’ Withdrawal
Popovic explained: “I’m not entirely sure where things stand. He was in the squad for the camp, but on the day he was meant to travel, he let us know he wasn’t coming.
He told us he has a lot on his mind right now, particularly regarding his future. We respect his decision and will see how things unfold.”
Jack Iredale Reflects on Breakthrough Hibs Season
Meanwhile, fellow Hibs player Jack Iredale is celebrating his first Australia call-up after a strong debut season in Scotland. The former EFL defender joined Hibs last summer and played a key role in their resurgence after a rocky start.
Speaking to The West, Iredale said: “It was a really enjoyable season. It didn’t begin well — we were bottom of the table in November — but the club stuck with the coaching staff. From there, the team’s unity really grew.
Winning games boosted confidence, and the fans were outstanding, backing us home and away. We shared some special moments with them.”
He added: “I never lost belief. Representing Australia has always been a dream.
When I got the call-up, I was buzzing — I rang home straight away even though it was probably the middle of the night back there.
I wouldn’t have taken the risk of leaving Perth Glory if I didn’t think I still had a shot at this.”
Reflecting on his journey, Iredale said: “You learn something every day. With promotion and relegation, there’s no margin for error. It forces you to grow — in game management and as a player.
To stay at this level, you need more than talent; you need resilience and consistency.”
