The Socceroos have proven tough to contain in their matches under new coach Graham Arnold, winning three of their four games and drawing against South Korea, and they will go into the opening game against Jordan as heavy favourites.

It was the last two of those lead up games where Grant made his first appearance for the senior national side, impressing in victories over Lebanon (3-0) and Oman (5-0).

Socceroos go into the tournament as defending champions but it’s the first time Grant will take part in the competition – the biggest event for the Australian national side outside of the World Cup.

The Australians will be one of the favourites at the tournament considering the carry the second highest international ranking into the event, only behind Iran.

Socceroos will be aiming for their first away win over Jordan after two failed attempts. Kick-off is 10pm AEDT.

However, the task has been made tougher for the Australians after stay midfielder Aaron Mooy was ruled out with a knee injury and Matthew Leckie could miss the entire tournament after suffering a hamstring injury.

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Socceroos’ other group games at the Asian Cup will come against Palestine (Friday) and Syria (January 16).

Grant maintains Central West’s representation at the tournament after Nathan Burns took part in the successful 2015 edition.

Four teams have managed to defend Asian Cup titles.

South Korea achieved the feat in 1956 and 1960, Iran took out three straight in 1968, 1972 and 1976, Saudi Arabia doubled up in 1984 and 1988 and Japan in 2000 and 2004.