Socceroos boss hits back at critics

AFTER masterminding just Australia’s third ever World Cup win, Socceroos coach Graham Arnold fired back at the ex-players and fans who savaged him and his team after the France loss.

The Socceroos’ destiny is in their own hands after a glorious 1-0 victory over Tunisia, thanks to a first-half Mitchell Duke goal and a tactical masterclass from Arnold, who now knows that victory against Denmark would book passage through to the Round of 16.

It was a historic day at the Al-Janoub Stadium in Doha, and Arnold nearly ran out of time in his press conference going through the list of players who had performed out of their skin.

It started at the back, with captain Mat Ryan inspirational in goals, while Harry Souttar and Kye Rowles put in imperious displays as Australia secured its first clean sheet since the 1974 World Cup.

That it came just three days after a frustrating night, in which it watched four goals slip by for France, made Australia’s resolute defence all the more impressive.

But it was that French defeat that left Arnold wide open for his critics to have a swing, and they didn’t miss.

“Who cares? They’ve never coached,” Arnold said of his detractors.

But when pressed on the verbal attacks from former players, Arnold’s response was more telling. “I haven’t seen who was critical. Some of them have never even been to a World Cup,” he said.

“I don’t listen to them. They have no effect on my life.”

Arnold had every right to be in a chipper mood as the victory sparked wild celebrations across Australia. “The fans back at home, it’s a moment they’ll remember for the rest of their lives,” he said.