Australia NewsStandby Holland Is On Red Alert |
EXCLUSIVE: Back-up James Holland is refusing to accept his Olympic dream is over, despite only being put on standby for Beijing.
To see the Olyroos training at North Sydney Oval...
The Newcastle Jets youngster is one of four players who will travel with the squad to Asia next week and will remain as part of the set up until the eve of the tournament.
Arnold has already gathered Holland, Leigh Broxham, Matt Simon and Chris O'Connor together to tell them that they still have an important role to play in the build up.
Speaking after training at North Sydney Oval today, Holland told au.fourfourtwo.com: "I've just got to focus on training, working hard and being ready to go if the situation comes around where I am needed.
"If that situation does come up and you're not ready then it's an opportunity that you're not ready to take advantage of, for the team or yourself.
"Yes, it was disappointing (not to make the squad) but I certainly haven't given up hope. You have to remain positive. I'll keep my head up. I'll be eligible for the next Olympics and hopefully I'll be there in 2012.
"Whether I play in these Games or not, it's still been very valuable to be part of things up to now."
An injury to a player could change the picture completely but Holland jokes that he won't be administering a crafty kick or two in training to boost his own chances.
"No, there'll be none of that," he said. "We're here to support the boys, not injure them."
Holland said coach Arnold had made it clear that all four standby players still had a role to perform.
The youngster added: "He told us that at the start it's going to be tough for us as it will feel like we're being left out.
"But we have to keep putting it all in, make it hard for the other boys, which we will.
"You have to work hard and make sure you are prepared for the situation if you are needed."
To see the Olyroos training at North Sydney Oval...
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