Sasa Ognenovski hits out at ‘disrespectful’ treatment of veterans by coach Ange Postecoglou

SOCCEROOS defender Sasa Ognenovski has hit out at Ange Postecoglou’s handling of several recent retirements, labelling it as “disrespectful”.

SOCCEROOS defender Sasa Ognenovski has hit out at Ange Postecoglou’s handling of several recent retirements, labelling it as “disrespectful”.

Australia’s coach dropped the axe on former captain Lucas Neill earlier this week, informing the 36-year-old defender he wasn’t part of the extended World Cup squad that will be announced next week.

That news followed hot on the heels of 30-year-old midfielder Brett Holman announcing his retirement from international duties, while legendary goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer decided he would no longer play for his country earlier this year.

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Ognenovski, who many believe should be in the World Cup squad himself, spoke about Postecoglou’s actions with disarming honesty — perhaps a sign that he has given up hope of going to Brazil.

“I don’t think he’s contacted many of the players that … have retired, or don’t want to play for the Socceroos anymore,” Ognenovski told Fox Sports.

“I just think, even with Lucas, I don’t know whether he contacted him or not … the way that some of the retirements have come out is a bit disrespectful.”

Ognenovski (L) and Neill formed the core of Australia’s defence for several years.

Neill has vowed to play on in the hope of making the cut for Australia’s Asian Cup squad next year, but that seems unlikely given Postecoglou’s preference for making wholesale changes and sticking to them.

That could also hurt Ognenovski’s chances, although the Sydney FC defender believes he still has what it takes to help Australia’s World Cup campaign.

“I came back to Australia obviously with the view of being here in the shop window so he could watch my games,” Ognenovski said. “I played every game, I backed up, and I think if he needs an experienced player I’ll … put my hand up.”

However, the 35-year-old revealed he’s still yet to be contacted by Postecoglou.

Former Socceroos captain Paul Wade, who made 84 appearances in the green and gold as a central defender, said Ognenovski would bring a lot to the table if given the chance, but his age is likely to count against him.

“He (Ognenovski) was brilliant. He was the best player in Asia at one time,” Wade told AAP.

“And he’s organised that back four of Sydney FC, there’s no doubt about that. He brings so much to the table.

“But whether he’s fit enough any more, whether he’s quick enough any more — and you have to be lightning fast at the back because these (World Cup) strikers will tear you apart.

“And seeing as he’s the last line in defence, he can’t afford to get beaten once and I think at that level he will be.”

Originally published as Sasa Ognenovski hits out at ‘disrespectful’ treatment of veterans by coach Ange Postecoglou