Demandred
05-05-2007, 09:15 PM
http://www.goal.com/en-india/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=293780
Harry Kewell’s return to action after a lengthy injury absence has got Australian coach Graham Arnold smiling but he isn’t breaking open the champagne just yet.
Socceroos Boss Cautious Over Kewell Return To Action
The Liverpool winger played 35 minutes of a reserve game earlier in the week to raise hopes that he will be fit for Australia’s Asian Cup campaign which kicks off against Oman on July 8.
The 28 year-old has been out of action since the 2006 World Cup but impressed the watching Arnold with his sharpness.
“Physically, he looked fantastic,” said Arnold after the game.
"Liverpool had made it clear they wouldn't let him back on the park until he matched all his old test results, and he looked as good as I've ever seen him. It was just great to see him back on the field. He moved around very well, and this was a big stepping stone for him.
“Harry's done a lot of work to get to this stage, now it's all about getting some match fitness under his belt.”
There are two months remaining before the Socceroos land in Thailand and Arnold knows that much can happen in the meantime, especially with the injury-prone ex-Leeds star.
“Look, there's a lot of water to go under the bridge before then,” added Arnold.
“I don't know what Liverpool have in mind for him for the rest of the season, but the next three weeks will be crucial to see how he goes.”
Harry Kewell’s return to action after a lengthy injury absence has got Australian coach Graham Arnold smiling but he isn’t breaking open the champagne just yet.
Socceroos Boss Cautious Over Kewell Return To Action
The Liverpool winger played 35 minutes of a reserve game earlier in the week to raise hopes that he will be fit for Australia’s Asian Cup campaign which kicks off against Oman on July 8.
The 28 year-old has been out of action since the 2006 World Cup but impressed the watching Arnold with his sharpness.
“Physically, he looked fantastic,” said Arnold after the game.
"Liverpool had made it clear they wouldn't let him back on the park until he matched all his old test results, and he looked as good as I've ever seen him. It was just great to see him back on the field. He moved around very well, and this was a big stepping stone for him.
“Harry's done a lot of work to get to this stage, now it's all about getting some match fitness under his belt.”
There are two months remaining before the Socceroos land in Thailand and Arnold knows that much can happen in the meantime, especially with the injury-prone ex-Leeds star.
“Look, there's a lot of water to go under the bridge before then,” added Arnold.
“I don't know what Liverpool have in mind for him for the rest of the season, but the next three weeks will be crucial to see how he goes.”