2015 Asian Cup: Matt McKay says Socceroos omissions a sign of improved depth since World Cup
SOCCEROO Matt McKay cited the midfield omissions of Oliver Bozanic and James Holland as proof competition for places has intensified since the World Cup.
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BRISBANE Roar veteran Matt McKay cited the midfield omissions as proof that competition for places has intensified since the World Cup.
Oliver Bozanic was one of six omissions from the Brazil 2014 squad despite his impressive performance against the Netherlands, while James Holland was also axed despite notching 15 games for Austria Vienna this season.
And in-form Melbourne City technician Aaron Mooy was stiff to miss, while Fiorentina’s Josh Brillante has not missed a squad since the World Cup.
With captain Mile Jedinak entrenched in midfield, McKay is vying for place in the XI with the likes of Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), Terry Antonis (Sydney FC) and Massimo Luongo (Swindon Town).
“It is (stronger). It’s a strong position, has been for a while now,’’ McKay said.
“You see the guys that have missed out on this squad and some guys did well at the World Cup and aren’t here.
“We’ve got a couple of weeks to work, I’m sure Ange has got his ideas of what teams he wants to play for each game.
“Competition is good for him, we need to put out a team that wins games.’
“The whole squad’s going to be needed for the whole tournament, it’s not going to be the same 11 every game, so everyone’s got to be ready.’’
McKay has fond memories of game one opponents Kuwait, making his Socceroos debut against the Gulf nation in 2006 in a 2-0 win.
Since then McKay has amassed 50 caps, establishing himself as a regular since the 2011 Asian Cup.
“My first game was against Kuwait and I came on in stoppage time for Steve Corica, we got a result so hopefully that continues,’’ he said.
“We know they may be seen as the weaker side in the group but we’re doing our homework and making sure we’re ready for everything they’ve got to throw at us.
“We’ve got a lot of leaders now. You talk about the three senior guys in Bresh, Mile and Timmy but a lot of the guys have played at big tournaments so we need everyone to step up and be ready.’’
Originally published as 2015 Asian Cup: Matt McKay says Socceroos omissions a sign of improved depth since World Cup
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