2018 World Cup in Russia: Cahill role, defence, strikers among Socceroos big questions in warm-ups

HOW much time will Tim Cahill get? Who slots in at right back? Who gets first crack up front? Bert van Marwijk has much to contemplate as the Socceroos get ready for their two World Cup warm-ups.

Will Tim Cahill be let loose against the Czechs?

HOW much will Bert van Marwijk reveal in the Socceroos’ friendly against the Czech Republic on Friday night (EST)?

Here’s a look at the big questions facing the Dutchman.

THE CAHILL CONUNDRUM

Tim Cahill’s lack of meaningful minutes is well-documented: less than four hours playing time for the season. Surely van Marwijk uses the friendly as a chance to get some miles into the ageing stalwart’s legs?

Will Tim Cahill be let loose against the Czechs?

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WHO IS RIGHT-BACK?

Van Marwijk acknowledges right-back as the most troublesome position for the Socceroos - it has been for years. Plucking Fran Karacic from Croatia is a hint he’s in the Dutchman’s World Cup plans. Milos Degenek, Josh Risdon and even Josh Brilliante could be slotted there against the Czechs.

WHO’S UP FRONT?

Tomi Juric’s knee injury has opened the selection door for the likes of Jamie Maclaren, Andrew Nabbout and Nikita Rukavytsya. All would love a goal in Austria to enhance their claims.

LISTEN: Our football team of Tom Smithies and Dave Davutovic on the ground in Europe give their insight from Camp Socceroos ahead of their first warm-up match.

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THE UPSTART

Does van Marwijk let precocious Daniel Arzani off the leash against the Czechs? Just where could the rising talent fit in an attacking midfield of Aaron Mooy, Tom Rogic, Mathew Leckie and Robbie Kruse?

Will the Socceroos go with both Cahill and Arzani in Russia?

THE SQUEEZE

Midfield depth leaves A-Leaguers Dimitri Petratos and James Troisi vulnerable. With Rogic, Mooy and possibly Arzani, earmarked for the creative attacking roles, Petratos and Troisi would covet some minutes against the Czechs to make a case.

THE GLOVEMEN

Mat Ryan is deservedly entrenched as first-choice goalkeeper following his fine English Premier League season. But who is next: Brad Jones or Danny Vukovic? Will van Marwijk give them a run or opt to keep Ryan’s eye in against the Czechs?

Originally published as 2018 World Cup in Russia: Cahill role, defence, strikers among Socceroos big questions in warm-ups