Caltex Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglou is relishing the prospect of going head-to-head with legendary English manager Harry Redknapp when Australia hosts Jordan in World Cup qualifying in Sydney on March 29.
It was reported in the UK overnight that the former EPL manager is set to take charge of the world 82-ranked nation for their clashes against Bangladesh and then the Socceroos in Sydney on March 29.
Postecoglou welcomed the extra exposure Redknapp’s presence would bring for the match but was unsure how much of an influence he would have on the match in such a short space of time.
Reports: 'Arry Redknapp to coach against Socceroos in Sydney
“I’m not sure how much an opportunity he’ll get. He can’t wheel and deal like he usually does,” said Postecoglou at the announcement of a partnership between FFA and the NSW Government that locks in Caltex Socceroos and Westfield Matildas matches over the next five years.
“It’s the national team so unless he comes up with a new way of doing things, he’s going to have to go with the players he’s got.
“He’s a professional manager, who’s got a hell of a lot of experience. If he is here I’m sure it will create more interest which will be great.
“The more interest we get around the game the happier I’ll be.”
The Socceroos currently lead Jordan by two points in their group, with only the top side guaranteed to progress to the next stage of AFC qualifying following the match on 29 March.
Postecoglou said Redknapp's presence wouldn’t affect his squad’s preparation for the Allianz Stadium clash as the Socceroos seek to get revenge for the 2-0 loss they suffered in Amman in October last year.
“It won’t affect us, we’ll be preparing as we normally do and obviously from our perspective these two games are important because we want to finish on top of our group,” said Postecoglou.
“I’ve said for the last couple of weeks consistently this is a massive year for us. I want us to get off to a real cracking start and these two games are really important for that.
“It looks like Adelaide will have a big crowd, we want a big crowd in Sydney because we want a massive launching pad for what’s coming down the track.
“If Harry Redknapp’s the manager I think it’ll create great interest around him at least so bring it on.”
