Goal would put Cahill in very elite company

FOOTBALL: Tim Cahill has declared his fighting spirit makes him just as determined to help the Socceroos through to the knockout phase as he is about joining World Cup immortals.

The Socceroos’ record goalscorer will join arguably the game’s greatest, Pele, record World Cup scorer Miroslav Klose, West Germany legend Uwe Seeler and Argentina’s Maradona as the only players to have scored in four separate World Cups.

Cahill, 38, was warned by Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk last March that his Russia 2018 fate could be doomed if he did not up his game-time.

Despite Cahill’s paltry 63 Millwall minutes this season van Marwijk was convinced the forward, who presented in tiptop shape for pre-camp, could prove a World Cup wildcard with his big-game experience.

“I’m really calm and everything leads up to the big dance, starting against France. I don’t think I could be in a better space,’’ Cahill said.

“I’d love to join the greats, but I’ll be as happy stepping onto the pitch. It’s extraordinary to get to four World Cups. You never think you’re going to play in four.

“If called upon, I’ll be ready. I know a World Cup’s not just about one game, it’s about being ready for three and as long as you make yourself available, a lot of these players are going to be used.

“I’m a fighter, I’m very proud and passionate and I won’t give up my spot as part of the squad or as a leader because I’ve fought so hard to get it.

“(The lack of minutes) doesn’t bother me, doesn’t faze me not one bit.

“I’ve not missed a session and ... there’s no special formula other than being smart and rising to the occasion.”