Senior Socceroos say there's no rift
Senior Socceroos have dismissed any suggestion of a rift between players and under-fire coach Pim Verbeek, insisting all is well in Australia's World Cup camp.
"Complete and utter nonsense," said veteran defender Craig Moore when asked about rumours of team disharmony.
"There is no rift," said Harry Kewell, one of three players reportedly angry at being overlooked for the opening match against Germany.
Striker Josh Kennedy and midfielder Mark Bresciano were also surprisingly omitted, and normally permanent fixture Vince Grella was substituted at half time.
"We are all disappointed," said Kewell, "but we are men, we take it on the chin."
He denied reports of ill-feeling between some players and their Dutch coach, saying: "We are all right behind him.
"We have all got confidence in him."
Kewell was upset at some sections of the media.
"It's a shame you are all having a go at us," he said.
"There's people making things up.
"People are taking this World Cup and trying to turn it into a bad one.
"They are having a go at us and the manager."
Craig Moore said Verbeek had an exceptional record in Australia's qualifying for the World Cup.
Left-back Scott Chipperfield said: "One bad game and all of a sudden half the team should retire.
"We let ourselves and the whole country down, but we've got time to turn it around."
Earlier Football Federation Australia chief executive Ben Buckley was asked whether any players had approached him and voiced concerns about Verbeek's questionable tactics in the Germany match.
"Absolutely none whatsoever," Buckley replied.
"All the speculation is just speculation on a very ill-informed rumour."
Buckley stood by Verbeek, and ruled out any summary dismissal of the Dutchman during the tournament.
Verbeek has already announced he will quit as Australian coach following the tournament.
The Socceroos admit there was deep disappointment in the squad after the 4-0 thrashing by Germany.
But they believe they can turn their whole World Cup around by beating Ghana on Saturday.
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