Postecoglou agonises over axed trio

Coach Ange Postecoglou says he agonised over decisions to cut Curtis Good, Adam Sarota and Josh Brillante from Australia’s World Cup squad.

‘‘It wasn’t easy,’’ Postecoglou said yeterday. ‘‘Obviously players being so close to getting on the plane to a World Cup and being part of it, it’s not the best news to deliver.’’

Defender Good failed to overcome a nagging hip injury, while Postecoglou wasn’t convinced midfielder Sarota, despite recovering from a knee recon- struction, could handle the rigours of a World Cup.

Postecoglou said A-Leaguer Brillante fell victim to the Socceroos’ midfield depth but was confident the trio would play plenty of international football in the future.

‘‘They have taken it professionally and understand that I’m sure their opportunities will come again,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s obviously disappointing for those boys because they have worked really hard.

‘‘A couple of decisions were made just because of their bodies not being able to hold up.

‘‘I’m super confident all three will play a big part in our future.’’

The 27 remaining players will fly to Brazil today, with the squad to be trimmed to 23 players on June 2.

Postecoglou eased concern on defender Ivan Franjic, who was forced from the field after suffering a knock to his left knee in Monday night’s 1-1 draw with South Africa.

Fellow defender Matthew Spiranovic missed the friendly because of an ankle complaint.

Captain Mile Jedinak (groin) and veteran midfielder Mark Bresciano (back) also didn’t play against the South Africans.

Jedinak said he planned to play in the Socceroos’ lead-up games in Brazil before their June 13 tournament opener against Chile and following matches against the Netherlands (June 19) and Spain (June 24).

Bresciano was rested from the farewell friendly in Sydney after complaining of back stiffness following training.