Ognenovski eyes Soceroos comeback

[Wraith]

AUSTRALIAN defender Sasa Ognenovski admits it was disappointing to miss out on a spot in the World Cup squad, but is eyeing next year’s Asian Cup in Qatar and targeting continental glory with Seongnam.
The 31-year-old dual-nationality Macedonian was in solid form heading into selection for South Africa, but Socceroos boss Pim Verbeek left the former A-League defender out of his squad.

An earlier snub by Verbeek had forced Ognenovski to give up on his dream and consider representing Macedonia instead. However he didn't and is still available to play for Australia.

With Verbeek's departure, the 195cm defender is now upbeat about his chances for the 2011 Asian Cup and an Australia call-up.

"It was extremely disappointing given that my form had been pretty solid but that's life and better players then me have missed out on World Cups," he told the-afc.com.

"I have always been ready to represent Australia but just never had the opportunity," he said. "I would love to get the chance to represent my country at the Asian Cup in January."

With the retirement of veteran defender Craig Moore, Ognenovski may get his chance in Qatar with a new manager set to take charge of the Socceroos.

But Ognenovski has more pressing concerns as Seongnam skipper with his side in the final eight of the Asian Champions League.

Seongnam faces a struggling Suwon side in September, which is languishing at the bottom of the K-League ladder with two wins from 11.

The Melbourne-born defender is unsure why Suwon is struggling domestically, given its fine continental form.

"I have played against Suwon twice in the K-League, winning one and drawing one and we played in the FA Cup final which we lost on penalties," Ognenovski said.

He added: "I'm not really too sure why Suwon are struggling domestically...maybe their style of play suits Asia more than the K-League."

Brazilian forward Jose Mota has been a key in the Bluewings' winning run with nine goals in six games.

Ognenovski believes "containing" Mota, on loan from Norwegian side Molde FK, will be vital.

The former Adelaide United man also relived memories of the Reds' amazing run to the final in 2008.

He added: "One of the high points was being part of the first Australian team getting to the final. It was much harder getting through the group stage then as you had to finish top of the group.

"The high point of this campaign is obviously making it to the final eight and as for the low points...none to speak of as yet."

[Red-4-Life]

would be a great inclusion for the Asian Cup squad! Did very well for Adelaide in the ACL against Asian opponents plus would know what to expect from South Korea's attack as he plays there.

[the_gun]

we should pick him. no doubt.

[seanason]

Sasa <3

Bias aside, he's a no brainer. Playing in Asia, in the Champions League and captaining his side.

How i miss him

[DOC]

why, the squad needs to be regenerated with youth with an eye always on 2014...

he is 31 and technically coming out of his prime, 35 when brazil comes around, therefore max 20 caps.

spiranovic and such, maybe de vere need to be blooded, along with others...

asian cup should be to give young blokes a chance and get the transition happening as at least 60% of the current aus squad will not be around come 2 years and start of wc quals

[Steelinho]

Of course he'd aim for the Socceroos. His declaration for FYR Macedonia backfired.

[Red-4-Life]

fair enough he wanted to represent his heritage country, totally understandable. But has it hurt his chances of playing for Australia?

[Bomber]

As DOC said, he'd be 35 by the time Brazil WC came around. We should be looking to play younger players and groom them for the task ahead, rather than just plod along for short term gain IMO.

[Googes]

You need expirence to enhance the young players to become better in the future. At least 70% of the squad would be picked on the base they will be around in 4 years.

[DOC]

You need expirence to enhance the young players to become better in the future. At least 70% of the squad would be picked on the base they will be around in 4 years.

spot on, obviously the maybes (in 4 years maybes i mean) such as emerton, neill, kewell etc should be there but need an injection of youth straight away in the upcoming friendlies

[Kitchimo]

Bring him back for the Asian Cup. Winning that will give us more interntional opportunities and potential for exposure to better quality opposition (Confederations Cup).

Then, through the friendlies, the WCQ, the ACQ, and the Confeds Cup over the next 3 years before 2014, we can blood the youngsters whilst still determining if Sasa is 'up to it' at that level.

[Chaos]

why, the squad needs to be regenerated with youth with an eye always on 2014...

he is 31 and technically coming out of his prime, 35 when brazil comes around, therefore max 20 caps.

spiranovic and such, maybe de vere need to be blooded, along with others...

asian cup should be to give young blokes a chance and get the transition happening as at least 60% of the current aus squad will not be around come 2 years and start of wc quals

Spot on DOC
Meh...over Spiranovic. Dont think he will is as good as other personell have pumped him up to be. But I'm willing to be shown otherwise.

Of course he'd aim for the Socceroos. His declaration for FYR Macedonia backfired.

Also true. But I think I would take the chance in selecting him for the Asian Cup personally.

[LUFC]

fair enough he wanted to represent his heritage country, totally understandable. But has it hurt his chances of playing for Australia?

No it's not. He should never be allowed to pull on the green and gold.

The man is a joke.

[COLOSSUS]

fair enough he wanted to represent his heritage country, totally understandable. But has it hurt his chances of playing for Australia?

No it's not. He should never be allowed to pull on the green and gold.

The man is a joke.

And why is he a joke exactly??? This should be good!!!

[LUFC]

Because he believes in Jesus.

[COLOSSUS]

Because he believes in Jesus.

Shouldnt expect much more from a 5 year old.

You mr, are an embarassment to your family

[LUFC]

[vidmarzzz]

Sorry, comeback? Have I missed his past selection for the Socceroos?

[DOC]