Caltex Socceroos Captain Mile Jedinak has been ruled out of the clash with Brazil and the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Jedinak pulled up sore after the Saudi Arabia World Cup Qualifier and coach Ange Postecoglou has made the tough decision to withdraw the captain from what is a hectic schedule over the next two weeks, where the Socceroos will play at least four games in 13 days as well as the long haul travel to Europe.

Jedinak will be replaced by Austrian-based midfielder James Jeggo.

“Losing Mile is a blow as he is not only an important member of the midfield but a great leader amongst the group,” Postecoglou said. “He has had a tough period since Christmas with his groin and we all agree it is in the best long term interest of Mile and the Socceroos that he has a break.

“He will take a break to ensure he is ready for the season ahead with his club and what is also an important 12 months for the National Team, beginning with the Qualifiers in August/September.”

Preview: Caltex Socceroos v Brazil

Jedinak said: “I’m disappointed to miss the Confederations Cup as it is something we have been looking forward to and working towards since we won the Asian Cup. But, we have some crucial games coming up over the next 12 months leading into the World Cup, which I need to be fit and firing for.”

The Socceroos take on Brazil later today at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before departing for Russia on Wednesday morning, where they will take on Germany, Cameroon and Chile in the Group Stage of the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.

MATCH DETAILS

Caltex Socceroos v Brazil

Tuesday 13 June 2017

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Kick off 8pm

The match will be broadcast LIVE on Fox Sports and the Nine Network.

The boss discusses Brazil clash at MCG

MATCH DETAILS (Confederations Cup)

June 19 Australia v Germany (Confederations Cup) Fisht Stadium Sochi 6pm (1am AEST)

June 22 Cameroon v Australia (Confederations Cup) St Petersburg Stadium 6pm (1am AEST)

June 25 Chile v Australia (Confederations Cup) Spartak Stadium Moscow 6pm (1am AEST)

Caltex Socceroos squad is: