Why Bosnich believes Ryan’s lack of game time in Spain cannot continue

Mark Bosnich believes Mat Ryan’s situation at Real Sociedad could impact his output for the Australian nation team.

The 29-year-old goalkeeper joined the Spanish club in July, but has spent most of his time in San Sebastian on the bench.

Despite being stuck behind Alex Remiro and making just three La Liga appearances this season, Ryan remains Graham Arnold’s first choice keeper for the Socceroos.

But how long can he afford to continue playing second fiddle at his current club?

Former Socceroos gloveman Bosnich believes the former Brighton keeper, who last season had a brief stint with Arsenal, might have to assess his options at club level if he wants to continue as Australia’s number one.

“I would think not too much longer (can he sit as Sociedad no.2),” Bosnich said on SEN 1170 Drive.

“Obviously he’s got a little bit of an advantage that Mitch Langerak said he couldn’t play for the Socceroos anymore because of COVID and with the travelling.

“I would think that it’s essential that you are playing regularly if you’re going to play for any national team in the world.

“As good as he’s done with not being number one, I really don’t think that this thing can continue. I’m sure Graham Arnold would have spoken the same to him.

“I’ve had the experience before when I played in the national team where four or five players weren’t playing regular and it really does affect you.”

But how much competition does he have within the Australian setup? How many Aussie goalkeepers are at his level?

“When he’s at his best, none,” Bosnich added.

“But at this moment in time I don’t think he’s at his very best and it’s understandably so because he’s not playing week in, week out. There are other goalkeepers who are.

“That’s such an important thing, especially for a goalkeeper because you really do need that match sharpness.”

Ryan last played for Sociedad in a 3-1 home loss to Villarreal on the weekend, but had not been seen at La Liga level since late October.

The likes of Danny Vukovic (NEC Nijmegen) and Lawrence Thomas (SønderjyskE) are providing the healthiest competition to Ryan, while Paul Izzo (Xanthi) and Andrew Redmayne (Sydney FC) have been recent call-ups to the Socceroos squad.

Arnold’s national team next plays in a World Cup qualifier against Vietnam in Melbourne on January 27 with Ryan expected to retain the gloves despite his struggles in Spain.