Mile Jedinak confirms availability for all-or-nothing World Cup playoffs against Honduras
INSPIRATIONAL Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak says “bring on” Honduras after confirming his availability for the all-or-nothing World Cup playoffs.
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RETURNING Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak is relishing the challenge of focusing his team on the task of beating Honduras, confirming his availability for the all-or-nothing World Cup playoffs.
The combative midfielder declared “bring it on”, when asked about the ploys and cauldron-like atmosphere the Socceroos were expected to face in San Pedro Sula.
Jedinak was due to arrive in Socceroos camp Monday morning Honduran time (Tuesday morning Australian time), and dispelled any myths about his availability after he was an unused sub for Aston Villa.
He admitted it’s been tough watching his team while recovering from groin surgery, having not played since the June 8 won over Saudi Arabia.
Ange Postecoglou’s future and the FFA political power struggle have overshadowed preparations for the Socceroos’ World Cup playoffs, but Jedinak said the games were all that mattered now.
“It’ll be a task, but I will make sure that I do and we do everything we possibly can to get the job done. I haven’t pictured anything else (but qualifying),’’ Jedinak told the Herald Sun.
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“We’ve got to focus on the game. It’s business as usual. You can’t control what people are going to write.
“We must focus on ourselves and our job on the pitch.
“We’re there for a reason. Until we’re told otherwise, we (play). I’ve not been around for the last few months and that’s been very difficult in itself.
“I’m looking forward to getting in and around the boys, getting them focused for these big games and instilling belief. Two huge efforts to achieve our goal.’’
Jedinak, who has only made three substitute appearances for Villa this season, admitted he was underdone for much of last season.
“Physically I’m in a good place and I’m really looking forward to getting amongst it and contributing,’’ he said.
“I wouldn’t put any restrictions on myself. I’ll try and play in both games, absolutely.
“I’m in a much better place than I was, even from that last (Socceroos) camp.
“The whole (groin) area feels better. Having carried it, you forgot what it feels like to not feel anything.
“It didn’t always feel the best but I had to play and do a job for the team. That’s the way I played right up until after that Saudi game. I got myself up and got through the game.’’
Jedinak, who’s won 71 Socceroos caps, was ready for whatever Honduras served up.
“Bring it on I say. Lets see what we’ve got,’’ Jedinak said.
“I’ve got the utmost faith and belief in what we do as a group. This time is no different.
“It’s crunch time. I’m looking forward to making up for what I’ve missed out on.
“The boys were fantastic against Syria. We’ve got to step up again.’’
Originally published as Mile Jedinak confirms availability for all-or-nothing World Cup playoffs against Honduras