Australia's coach Graham Arnold resigns after defeat

Australia's national team captain Graham Arnold is leaving with immediate effect, announces the country's football association.

"After careful consideration, I believe it's time for new leadership to guide the team forward", said the 61-year-old in a statement.

Australia has struggled in the World Championship qualifiers, with a shocking home defeat against Bahrain earlier in September and a draw against Indonesia beforehand.

The Socceroos, as the Australian men's national team is also called, are fifth in their group and will face bottom-placed China and group-leading Japan next month.

Australia is now seeking a temporary national team captain ahead of the important matches next month.