SOCCEROOS coach Ange Postecoglou has moved to cool the debate over whether Tim Cahill should be wooed to join the A-League, insisting that no single player could be seen as critical to the future of the game.

Three goals shy of hitting a half century of goals for his country, Cahill becomes a free agent next month — and earlier this week called on A-League officials to make the running if they wanted him to feature in the Australian competition.

Asked about Cahill’s assertion that he had not been approached to sign for an A-League club, Postecoglou said the question made “a lot of assumptions” about contract talks. “That’s the storyline in the press and I know what’s going on behind the scenes,” he said.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou with Tim Cahill at Socceroos training. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

“There’s certainly a willingness to get Tim to play here, but Australian football doesn’t hinge on one person, never has.

“We’re talking about guys like Aaron Mooy, he played in the A-League last year and performed extremely well against some high-profile opponents the other day. It’s in the hands of the people involved.

“Timmy’s obviously a person determined to make the most out of his career and he’s got a real goal of staying in the national team and keep contributing. His next move is a critical one from a personal perspective, and it would be great for the A-League if he came here.

“The future of the A-League doesn’t hinge on Tim or anyone else, but nor does Tim’s future hinge on it. The most important thing is for Tim to keep performing well - if those two things can match up one day, that’d be great.”

Meanwhile captain Mile Jedinak insists his side will not lack for motivation against Greece, as a long season winds up for many of the Australian squad.

The two friendlies against the former European champions are the last action for all players bar those based in Asian leagues, but Jedinak said he had seen no evidence of lethargy in the squad.

Mile Jedinak says the Socceroos are raring to go ahead of the Greece clash. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Corp Australia

“Not at all - I’ve made it quite clear that when you get the opportunity to represent your country, whether it’s a friendly or a World Cup qualifier, you have to take it,” Jedinak said. “It’s a privilege and an honour to be here, for what will be a difficult ask here in Sydney and again on Tuesday.

“There’s no place I’d rather, knowing you’re coming into camp and being around another part of your family. The last half of the season for me (at Crystal Palace) was one of the better ones I’ve had, especially given the way it started (in losing his place).

“Having Socceroos camps in November and March gave me the focus and drive to do what I did in the back half of the season. It’s never a drag to play for your national team. You have a responsibility, that’s how strongly I feel about it.”