Holger Osieck will make sure his Australian team is at their best for this weekend's international friendly against Germany. The Socceroos take on the world's number three-ranked nation in Monchengladbach next Tuesday and Osieck says his players will use the game to test themselves against a quality outfit.
The German tactician originally named a squad of 22 for the meeting but has already cut that to 17 to give those who have made the final cut a good chance of playing minutes against Die Mannschaft.
"When we have just one game, I don't think it's appropriate to have lots of players," Osieck said.
"An ideal squad for one game would be 18, but I decided to name 17 now and after the camp, if someone impresses, he may get the chance to join in the squad to face Germany.
"It gives some incentive to the players to perform and shows this isn't some time-killing exercise in Germany. We are taking it very seriously indeed."
Osieck admitted that the meeting with Joachim Low's selection will be a tough proposition but knows it is a great opportunity for his Socceroos.
"I know how difficult it is to win in Germany but we should be confident, the attitude is important," Osieck added.
"I'm not afraid to play the strong teams because I think it is more beneficial to play these teams than play weaker teams and just hope to win.
"Results always matter and in this game the result matters as well, but I think you have to ride on both horses, development and success."
17-man Australia squad for Germany friendly
Goalkeepers
Mark Schwarzer (Fulham, England) Mitch Langerak (Borussia Dortmund, Germany)
Defenders
David Carney (Blackpool, England) Jon McKain (Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia) Lucas Neill (Galatasaray, Turkey) Sasa Ognenovski (Seongnam Ilhwa, South Korea) Luke Wilkshire (Dinamo Moscow, Russai)
Midfielders
Tim Cahill (Everton, England) Brett Emerton (Blackburn Rovers, England) Brett Holman (AZ Alkmaar, Holland) Mile Jedinak (Genclerbirligi, Turkey) Neil Kilkenny (Leeds United, England) Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar, Australia) Carl Valeri (Sassuolo, Italy)
Forwards
Harry Kewell (Galatasaray, Turkey) Robbie Kruse (Melbourne Victory, Australia) Nikita Rukavytsya (Hertha Berlin, Germany)
