Jones withdraws from Socceroos squad - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Jones withdraws from Socceroos squad

By Guy Hand 12/06/2010 05:15:52 AM Comments (0)

Socceroos reserve goalkeeper Brad Jones has officially withdrawn from the World Cup, with Eugene Galekovic drafted into the 23-man squad.

Jones notified Football Federation Australia on Friday he would remain with his family in france after his four-year-old son Luca was diagnosed with leukaemia.

He was given leave from the Australian training camp last weekend after the news, which rocked the close-knit squad.

Governing body FIFA gave the Socceroos special dispensation to add Adelaide United goalkeeper Galekovic to the squad as Jones' replacement because of the circumstances.

"Brad has told us he won't be coming back and Eugene has been allowed to officially become part of the squad," an FFA spokesman said.

Coach Pim Verbeek had been working on the basis Middlesbrough goalkeeper Jones would remain at his son's side in France, with Reading keeper Adam Federici now elevated to Mark Schwarzer's understudy.

Galekovic will be the third-string keeper.

Australia's World Cup opener is against Germany in Durban on Sunday (MON AEST), with the team leaving its base near Johannesburg to travel there on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Australia's attempt to host the 2022 World Cup has received a significant boost with Indonesia throwing their public support behind the bid.

"It is with great pleasure that I can tell the world of our support for Australia's bid to host the FIFA World Cup," Indonesian football boss Nurdin Halid said.

"We have developed a strong bond with the FFA and I have seen with my own eyes the dedication and support for the World Cup amongst the Australian people.

"We have seen some great scenes of celebration here in South Africa in recent days and I can say with confidence the people of Australia will put on a show second to none."

FFA chairman Frank Lowy, who is currently in South Africa, says he welcomes Indonesian support.

"Our friendship is strong and to have the backing ... only serves to reaffirm my belief in our bid and in the excellent tournament and welcome we would give the world in 2022," Lowy said.

"I have been having a busy and productive week in speaking directly to members of FIFA's Executive Committee.

"I am heartened by the response I am receiving, although there is plenty of work still do over the coming months."

On Thursday, Lowy announced that Australia would shelve the bid for the 2018 World Cup - which is expected to go to Europe - to concentrate on 2022.

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