Qantas Socceroo Tim Cahill has urged the Sydney community to unite behind the national team for Tuesday’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Oman.
Qantas Socceroo Tim Cahill has urged the Sydney community to unite behind the national team for next Tuesday-s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Oman at Stadium Australia.
The veteran attacker, who recently commenced his second campaign with New York Red Bulls in the United States, has joined his team-mates in camp in Sydney and is eagerly anticipating next week-s make or break fixture.
Moreover, the 33-year-old is keen to play in front of a big Sydney crowd in what will be the Qantas Socceroos- first home international since June last year.
“The support that we get from the fans is the key,” said Cahill.
“We don-t get to play in Australia often and these pinnacle moments throughout a FIFA World Cup campaign could be the defining factor into qualifying.
“From seeing from afar, the support in the Hyundai A-League, what the Western Sydney Wanderers are doing and clubs like that, to see that sort of support here in Sydney would be a massive, massive help for us.”
With several unfamiliar faces amongst Holger Osieck-s 23-man squad and captain Lucas Neill suspended, Cahill-s leadership qualities will be especially important on Tuesday.
The 60-time capped international is Australia-s fourth most prolific goal scorer of all time and looms as a pivotal figure against Oman.
“Us older boys really want to lead the team, in every respect, on and off the park,” said Cahill.
“The professionalism starts now, whether we-re having lunch or training, making sure we-re doing the right things.
“It-s nice to be back in Sydney but, with a lot of youngsters in the team as well, let-s really have a good go at this.
“This is where you-ve got to shine, if you shine here then the whole world sees it.”
The Qantas Socceroos- road to Brazil recommences on Tuesday, 26 March at Sydney-s Stadium Australia with a crucial clash against Oman. Kick off is at 7.30pm AEDT.
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