Caltex Socceroos manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the media on Monday ahead of Tuesday night’s friendly with Brazil at the MCG.
Main points
- Postecoglou hinted keepers Mitch Langerak and Danny Vukovic may see some game time against the Selecao, as might uncapped Ajdin Hrustic.
- The boss confirmed Tim Cahill will see some game time against Brazil.
- Alex Gersbach – a replacement for injured Brad Smith – will join the squad in Russia.
Ange on Brazil game
"It’s a great opportunity to test ourselves against one of the best. Any time that opportunity comes along, you want to make the most of it.
"The key is to not get too caught up in the opponent. And making sure you get something out of the exercise.
"And for us, when we play friendly games we try to push ourselves and measure ourselves and try play our football against the very best."
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Ange on team selections
"We’ll use the game to top up some guys who need some game time – a few of them their leagues finished a while back.
"Some will need 90 minutes, some only 45 probably so, others not playing at all.
"We’ll use it as final preparation for the boys coming across for the Confeds Cup. It’s making sure the whole squad’s ready when we get over [to Russia].
"We’ll measure all of that at training today."
Ange on the keepers
"No-one’s ever felt they’re guaranteed to start. Maty’s [Ryan] had the majority of game time because Mitch [Langerak] was injured and injuries to other goalkeepers.
"All three [current] goalkeepers are going really well. And Danny Vukovic at training has been outstanding.
"I’d hate to think anyone thinks their spots are guaranteed. We want competition in every spot and certainly in the goalkeeping, all three are in good nick."
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Ange on potential debutant Ajdin Hrustic
"He’s looking comfortable at training and I’m sure he’s keen to get out there."
"It’s his hometown and from our perspective he’s one of the ones we’ll look to get some game time into."
Confirmed: Cahill to play
"Obviously the A-League’s finished some time ago but he’s worked real hard in the meantime.
"He looks in good nick but needs a run. And he’ll get one tomorrow night."
Need to know
- Brazil is Australia’s final game before leaving the country to compete in the Confederations Cup in Russia, kicking off early next week against Germany
- Brazil have been in Melbourne for around a week and played Argentina last Friday night, losing 1-0 in front of 95,000 at the G.
- Brazil have already qualified for the next World Cup
- Australia have two games left in their World Cup qualification group.