Star trio absent for Australia

22 May 2010 10:58

Australia are set to be without Scott Chipperfield, Harry Kewell and Mark Schwarzer for Monday's World Cup warm-up match against New Zealand at the MCG.

Schwarzer injured his thumb during this week's training camp in Melbourne, and while it is not to expected to threaten his World Cup prospects, coach Pim Verbeek is unlikely to risk the Fulham goalkeeper in a friendly match.

David Carney will get the chance to push his World Cup credentials with veteran defender Chipperfield set to be rested while Kewell was never considered for Monday's match as he bids to be fit for the World Cup after undergoing groin surgery earlier this year.

Source: PA