RicardoAlthough the gaffer loves 4-2-3-1 I think this is a decent alternative. Sometime a lone striker doesn't produce the results and can be seen in the lack of our goal getting ability. One target guy with three mids running off him is not enough of a threat against decent defensive sides.
Here Carney and Emerton run all day and get crosses in, something they do very well. Supported by Chippy and Wiltshire there should be enough firepower in the flanks, leaving Grella to spoil and Cahill to run riot in front of the opposing defenders. Kewell relieved of midfield duties can save his energy for lightning runs in the box and Kennedy can be the lurch-looking tall guy he is, providing headers into goal or to the feet of Kewell and Cahill.
02.12.2009
ZolaHas Viduka called it quits?
03.12.2009
RicardoPretty much, he quit Newcastle and then said no to Fulham who offered him a lifeline. He's still clubless and it doesn't look like this is bothering him. Bit of a pity really as he never really replicated his form early in his career and injury kept him from getting the recognition he deserved. Australia could really use him in place of Kennedy, but he's just not into it, sadly.
03.12.2009
ZolaI'll hazard a guess that Australia will be suffering from post golden generation syndrome. I just don't see players coming up to fill the boots of Kewell, Viduka etc...
03.12.2009
RicardoPretty much spot on. We fielded a second string side in the Asian cup recently, leaving a few names in the EPL to keep their spot like Gella, Emerton, Cahill, Schwartzer and Kewell in Turkey ... we lost and drew to Indonesia and Kuwait :)
Our population is too keen on AFL, Rugby League, Rugby Union and cricket to do any good with any consistency!
On the Socceroos website there's a decent pdf on 4-3-3:
http://www.myfootball.com.au/Newsletter/FFA_images/1-4-3-3_formation_v2.pdf
03.12.2009
ZolaI guess Australia and USA are on the same boat when it comes to popularity of football. It's a chicken and egg situation; the general public do not show interest to a sport where the country is mediocre, the sport do not develop due to lack of interest.
But I read interesting things about MLS. The way they handle their talent is really interesting. They force their vest players to European clubs to gain experience. There might be lessons for Australia from all these.
04.12.2009
