Skipper happy to talk the talk

FEARLESS skipper Mile Jedinak declared that no incentive was needed as his team dared to dream of a first knockout berth since 2006.

After a similarly emphatic finish five days earlier, Jedinak again outwitted a top-line Premier League keeper, with Kasper Schmeichel’s trash talk failing to ruffle the bearded one’s feathers.

The imposing Jedinak stroked his 16th straight Socceroos spot kick past the hapless Leicester City keeper, before returning verbal serve.

Jedinak implored his team to carry on and said the side couldn’t wait to face Peru on Wednesday.

“It’ll mean an awful lot [to reach the last 16]. But we’re not there yet and we’re going to have to put an almighty effort in to get there,’’ he said.

“There’s everything to play for. I don’t think anybody needs to boost the players. Everyone in that changeroom knows that we’ve got a chance still and … the motivation will be there, I’m sure.”

Jedinak, 33, was unflustered as he backed up a commanding midfield display with the emphatic penalty.

“The goalkeeper’s gonna do whatever he has to do to make himself feel bigger … [What he said] is not important,’’ Jedinak said. “We imposed ourselves really well. Maybe with a bit more luck we might have got that second and all-important goal.”