I agree with Kieran in regards to Wilkshire.
Wilkshire needs to play in the centre of the park. Think back to possibly Australia's best game under Pim. The game against Ireland Wilkshire was in the centre of midfield, his passing and positioning and movement was a key ingredient to Australia's success. I would also like to see Culina shifted to Right back, one his pace will be needed against Ghana, Right Back was where Culina played at PSV towards the end of his time in Holland.
After the Germany game, I can not see Pim playing the 442 system and he will revert to his usual 4231 plan of attack, sorry defence. GK - Schwarzer LB - Carney CB - Moore CB - Neil RB - Culina CDM - Wilkshire CDM - Valeri RW - Emerton LW - Bresciano CAM - Kewell ST - Kennedy
Pim has to take the blame for the tactics for the Germany game, his squad selection and the lack of player development over the past three years. However regardless who was out there and in what formation the boys on the field need to take responsibility. We seemed to have lost the work ethic and 100% commitment and respect for each other that 2006 socceroos had under Guus. (I think the damn Kiwi's stole it off us) On review of the Germany game, I noticed that when ever the Germans switched the play how often our midfield and defence would stop, relax, start to have a cuppa and then realise they needed to cover, too late.. Moore is slow on his feet and Lucas seemed to dropping to cover for moore through out the game, thus keeping the Germans onside. Chippers was scared to move forward and commit. We wanted to play the high line but we did not put any pressure on the German players particularly the ball carrier, which was another hallmark that Guus installed in the 2006 team. We need to pressure the other team moving them towards their own goal and into making a mistake. I am sure Pim was wishing he had the services of Rhys Williams and Scott Mac at the cup. You cannot leave talent like that at home. I am sure the Aussie boys will come out looking to avenge the Germany game. Let's hope Germany dominate the group and flog Serbia and Ghana.
Let's also hope that the socceroos thrashing from Germany does not effect our chances of hosting the 2022 World Cup.
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