Australia midfielder Vince Grella knows he will have to negate the influence of his German counterpart Bastian Schweinsteiger if the Socceroos are to get a favourable result in their opening World Cup match.

Grella understands just how important the Bayern Munich man is for the Germans, especially in the absence of Michael Ballack who is sidelined for the entire competition.

"What a great player, what more to say. He's been playing at the top level for a long time now. He's moved positions, he started as more of a winger. Now he has moved into the middle of midfield," Grella told Sportal.

"He's very dangerous with the ball at his feet. I think he can pick a pass. He has a great shot, we are going to have to be careful and not let him shoot from outside the box.

"I think he'll get their play started, I think he can find a pass. If I'm selected, I'm going to have to be very aware of closing his space and time down.

"I think he can (fill Ballack's shoes). They are different players, but I think he's maybe more dangerous at delivery in and around the box and we are going to have to pay a lot of attention to that."