Socceroo Star Sasa Ognenovski Feels the Treatment with Brett Holman and Mark Schwarzer as Disrespectful
Socceroo star Sasa Ognenovski seemed not very happy with the way the veteran players like Brett Holman and Mark Schwarzer are treated.
"The way that some of the retirements have come out is a bit disrespectful," Ognenovski stated to Fox Sports.
It is not sure whether Ognenovski can make it to the 30-team squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Former Socceroo captain Paul Walde expressed his doubt about the inclusion of Ognenovski in the squad.
"He was brilliant. He was the best player in Asia at one time ... And he's organised that back four of Sydney FC, there's no doubt about that. He brings so much to the table ... But whether he's fit enough any more, whether he's quick enough any more - and you have to be lightning fast at the back because these (World Cup) strikers will tear you apart ... And seeing as he's the last line in defence, he can't afford to get beaten once and I think at that level he will be," Wade said.
Socceroo coach Ange Postecoglou will declare the initial 30-man squad on Wednesday. The final 23-squad will be declared in Brazil on June 2. Postecoglou also confirmed Lucas Neil will not be in the preliminary squad.
Ognenovski has not played any matches after Australia lost to Brazil by 0-6 in September 2013 and also confirmed he hasn't spoken to Postecoglou recently.
"No. I haven't had any contact in regards to the World Cup or the friendlies prior to that ... I came back to Australia with a view to being here in the shop window so he (Postecoglou) could watch my games ... I have played every game. I have backed up ... I don't think he has contacted many of the players that we have seen recently who have retired or don't want to play for the Socceroos any more," Ognenovski stated.