Skipper Mile Jedinak says no one in the Caltex Socceroos’ squad is distracted by uncertainty over the starting line-up as Australia prepares to tackle Hungary tomorrow morning.
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The match at the Groupama Arena could provide Head Coach Bert van Marwijk with one final selection dilemma as players look to push their claim for starting positions in Australia’s opening FIFA World Cup™ clash with France in seven days time.
The Aston Villa man didn’t feature in the Caltex Socceroos’ 4-0 win over Czech Republic last Friday and faces rigid competition from the likes of Aaron Mooy, Massimo Luongo and Jackson Irvine who are all vying for two deep-lying roles in van Marwijk’s midfield.
Tomorrow morning’s friendly against Hungary has the potential to throw up another curveball for the Dutch coach, but Jedinak says ambiguity surrounding the team is the last thing on his mind.
“As soon as I came into camp I’ve put [questions over the line-up] that to one side and focussed on everything that we have to do here,” Jedinak told socceroos.com.au.
“There’s been a lot of information given, a lot of new things that we’re learning as a group and you have to be 100% committed to it and 100% focused on it.
“I’ve maintained that throughout [the build-up to the tournament] up until this point and will continue to do so right up until we go to Russia and beyond.”
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With the FIFA World Cup™ now in touching distance, excitement for football’s biggest event is palpable across the globe as teams start to descend in Russia.
The Caltex Socceroos will jet off for Kazan following tomorrow’s friendly, but Jedinak and the rest of the squad’s sole focus remains fixed on what will be an important 90 minutes against Hungary – a vital remaining step in the lengthy preparation process.
“This period has been vital for us, it’s been very important and we have to continue that right up until that first game.
“Everyone’s been very focused and determined to do the right thing at all times.
“Hopefully tomorrow we see that.”
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