The Socceroos influential captain Mile Jedinak was ruled out of the 2017 Confederations Cup. Australia manager Ante Postecoglu confirmed Monday that Jedinak will miss through a lingering groin injury.
This is certainly worrisome for Aston Villa supporters.
Once again, Mile Jedinak either re-aggravated or never completely healed from the groin problem that clouded his English Championship season.
Australia is really doing Aston Villa a service by sending Jedinak home. The report here from the Sydney Morning Herald claims Postecoglu is looking after both Jedinak and Australia’s long-term health. While everyone is bummed Jedi won’t be participating in Russia later this month, the bigger importance is he returns to match fitness strong and healthy.
The Socceroos’ Confederations Cup features four matches in 13 days with a friendly against Brazil preceding group-stage play.
In his stead, Australia calls upon uncapped midfielder Jimmy Jeggo – a like-for-like replacement to Jedinak. Jeggo plays in the Austrian Bundesliga for SK Sturm Graz.
It sounds like Jedinak could play if he absolutely had to, but Australia is taking absolutely zero chances. Come August, Postecoglu and company face two critical World Cup Qualifiers against Japan and Thailand. Those two fixtures will determine whether Australia qualifies directly to the 2018 World Cup, or whether they go to inter-continental playoffs.
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The pair of 3rd-place sides from Groups A & B will go head-to-head for the honor of playing CONCACAF’s 4th-place team in WCQ. Right now, Australia sits in third place behind Japan and Saudi Arabia based on goal differential.
For what it is worth, Aston Villa target Jackson Irvine will get the chance shine in a number six role.
Villa fans thank you Australia, for allowing the bearded wonder to rest properly. UTV!