Australia NewsKewell The Comeback Kid |
Socceroo hero Harry Kewell is set to make his comeback tonight after almost a year out of the game.
Kewell last played in Australia's vital World Cup game against Croatia - but shocked fans by turning up on the sidelines for the crucial Italy match on crutches.He was originally diagnosed as having gout but this was later found to be septic arthritis and has ruled him out of playing ever since.
Now though - while his Liverpool team-mates are chasing Euro glory against Socceroo team-mate Jason Culina's club, PSV Eindhoven - Kewell is set to play in a Liverpool Reserves match against Sheffield United reserves.
While it might not be the glamour ties he is used to, Kewell will be delighted to finally kick the ball again.
And it could mean the Australian ace is likely to hit full fitness just in time for Australia's Asian Cup campaign this winter.
"There was speculation suggesting that over the course of this month Harry would be looking to get back into match action whether it is reserve team or the first team," a Liverpool spokesman confirmed.
"I have not heard anything to say that he has been delayed."
There was originally speculation the arthritis could effectively end his career. Kewell has suffered a plague of injuries since signing to Liverpool for $12.5 million from Leeds United.
He disappointed Liverpool fans with lacklustre performances that repeatedly appeared to end in new injury woes.
But boss Rafa Benitez has stuck with the talented midfielder through his injury problems.
Now though it is possible he could be on the move in the next transfer window. Manchester City are said to be interested in signing him, and Bolton are reportedly wanting to do a part exchange with Tal Ben Haim for his services.
In the meantime though - with Liverpool's season almost over - Kewell looks like he will be focusing on making himself fit for the Socceroos.
Australia face Iraq, Oman and Thailand in the group stage of the Asian Cup starting in July - and Kewell's potential addition to the squad has delighted coach Graham Arnold.
"It's terrific that he's on the way back," Arnold admitted.
"We can't bank on Harry's fitness just yet because of what he's been through but to have him available again would be a huge boost for the team and the country.
"A player of his calibre being fit and hungry lifts everybody around the team. He's world class."
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