Van Marwijk keeps Jedinak guessing
EVEN after his solid performance against France, Mile Jedinak is no guarantee to retain his Socceroos first XI spot as coach Bert van Marwijk contemplates his right midfield balance to tackle Denmark.
Jedinak put in a true captain’s display after his 11thhour call-up, calmly stroking in an equalising penalty while stamping his mark with an early statement tackle as Les Bleus appeared physically intimidated by Australia.
Massimo Luongo started the two friendly lead-ins alongside Aaron Mooy and seemed set to start at Kazan Arena but last week’s second half against Hungary – when Jedinak’s introduction for Luongo triggered an improved performance – gave the coaching staff food for thought.
Van Marwijk left it late to make a call, with players unsure of the first XI after their final training session on Friday, as the coaching staff weighed up Aston Villa’s Jedinak versus QPR’s Luongo.
The coach made his call less than 24 hours before kick-off, believing Jedinak’s threat from set pieces and his leadership made him a more valuable commodity against France.
The Jedinak decision appeared justified as he caused havoc in France’s penalty area from Mooy’s set pieces.
He got the glancing header that almost led to a Corentin Tolisso own goal, before panicked Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti fisted the ball as it was set to sail over his head toward Jedinak.
The leadership issue is intriguing.
Comparing their impact in open play, Luongo is more mobile and provides offensive impetus, with a neat pass, an eye for goal and an ability to skip past players.
Jedinak offers more defensive surety.
The post-game huddle at Kazan Arena was symbolic, as Jedinak rounded up his 22 teammates and praised their efforts but implored them to keep going as Denmark and Peru stand between them and a round of 16 knockout berth.
While it is customary for the captain to attend the official pre-game press conference, it was winger Mathew Leckie who sat beside van Marwijk, prompting the press pack to presume Jedinak would make way for Luongo and Trent Sainsbury to wear the armband.
Van Marwijk bristled at the suggestion of mind games, nor would he offer any hints for the second game at Samara Arena.
“I was not bluffing but I will never answer these questions,’’ van Marwijk said.
‘‘Maybe next time (at the presser) another player is sitting next to me, maybe he (Jedinak) will sit next to me.
“You can write what you want and think what you want. ‘‘For me it is not an issue.” The Dutchman does not believe Tim Cahill can play for a whole game, nor does he think Daniel Arzani is ready to start. The fact Cahill did not appear against France shows he is being kept fresh for a role off the bench against Denmark.