Fit and firing Kruse a boost for Socceroos
REVITALISED and matchsharpened Robbie Kruse looms as the Socceroos’ offensive X-factor for the World Cup playoffs against Syria.
Kruse has notched 775 club minutes and three goals for German second-tier side Bochum this season, his best numbers since a stunning debut Bundesliga season of 2012-13. Injuries, limited minutes and contractual sagas have conspired against the graceful attacker.
A step back to Bundesliga 2, for the first time since his debut season in Europe, has brought games, goals and a smile back for Kruse.
“I feel great,’’ he said after yesterday’s training session in Malacca.
Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou has not had the luxury of Kruse in full flight, with an anterior cruciate ligament injury robbing him of a Brazil 2014 berth.
Postecoglou has the option of playing him off the left where he plays for Bochum or in one of the two central attacking roles.
“Since I took over four years ago he’s never come into camp with regular game-time,’’ the coach said.
“Now he’s getting it in a good competition. For him, that’s a huge positive and he’s showing when he does play regularly what he can bring, and I’m sure he’ll bring that [to the Socceroos].’’
The Socceroos have received a late boost with key Syrian defender and Chinabased Ahmad Al Salih (hamstring) ruled out of both legs.
Australia’s scenic route to Russia 2018 would break Uruguay’s 20-game qualifying record. Wins over Syria and the fourth-placed CONCACAF side would make it 22 games.