Midfielder Mile Jedinak has been named to wear the captain’s armband for the Socceroos’ international against Ecuador in London tonight (Thursday morning AEDT).
Midfielder Mile Jedinak has been named to wear the captain-s armband for the Socceroos- international against Ecuador in London tonight (Thursday morning AEDT).
Head coach Ange Postecoglou made the announcement at a media conference early this morning AEDT, describing the appointment as a just reward for Jedinak-s consistent performances in the English Premier League.
The former Sydney United and Central Coast Mariners product said he was honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the national team against the world-s No.24 ranked side.
The 29-year-old, who also skippers his club side Crystal Palace in England-s top-flight, made his international debut back in 2008 and will earn his 43rd cap when he leads the Socceroos out at Millwall-s home ground The Den.
"It's probably the hugest, biggest honour you could have as a footballer, captaining your country," Jedinak told media reporters.
"It's going to be a massive honour and something I definitely won't take lightly.
"It is something I'm really looking forward to."
Postecoglou said Jedinak was a worthy candidate to lead Australia, stating he was a key to his FIFA World Cup plans and one of only a few Socceroos playing regularly at the highest level overseas.
"It's a reward for him," said Postecoglou. "He's playing in one of the toughest leagues in the world, captaining his club side and playing well.
"He's an outstanding candidate to lead us tomorrow night. Beyond that Mile is in the same boat as everyone else - he needs to continue to play well and continue to show form."
Socceroo veteran Tim Cahill lauded Jedinak-s leadership qualities and said he had the full support of the 23-man squad for the clash against the South Americans.
"It's the right choice because Mile is a great leader and a great footballer,” said Cahill.
"It's the most sensible choice because he'll be playing every game and definitely, in that midfield role, he's someone who will be running the team and driving the team. I am very happy for Mile." MATCH DETAILS: Socceroos v Ecuador The Den, London Wednesday 5 March 2014 8pm kick off (7.00am AEDT)
The Socceroos v Ecuador match will be broadcast LIVE and Exclusive on FOX Sports 3 with a 30-minute pre-game show starting at 6.30am (AEDT) ahead of the 7.00am kick off.
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