‘Ask Tim,’ City boss says of Cahill rift rumours

ROSS McCormack is available for Melbourne City’s clash with Perth at AAMI Park tonight after missing last week’s loss to Brisbane.

Meanwhile, City coach Warren Joyce said it would be “best to ask Tim” Cahill about speculation the pair’s relationship was strained.

Joyce yesterday confirmed Scottish striker McCormack had been carrying an achilles injury while in Melbourne. The Englishman denied a report that the Aston Villa loan was stood down last week for disciplinary reasons after turning up late to training.

Cahill dropped a bombshell after Australia’s World Cup qualifying win against Honduras last week, saying he may have to explore a move elsewhere if he can’t get the game time he needs at City to ensure he’s selected for next year’s tournament in Russia.

Subsequent reports suggested Joyce and Cahill were barely on speaking terms, but the coach wouldn’t enter into the speculation.

“You’re better off asking Tim that question,” he said.

“He’s been out there for training, but you can only ask Tim those questions, not myself, because that’s speculation on my behalf. I have no problems with Tim Cahill at all. I’m concerned with the group. My only concern is the team and doing everything you can to help the club grow, to build the culture within the club.”

Joyce also brushed off questions about peace talks held between him and the Socceroos star last Saturday.

“I think those conversations are private,” he said.