Jon McKain is optimistic about the Socceroos chances to upset France in the opening game of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
While conceding the Socceroos don't have the ‘stars’ that the French do, he believes the competitive nature of this Australian outfit will give a good chance to upset the odds.
“I’m pretty pleased with what I’ve seen from Bert and the Boys," former Socceroo and A-League defender McKain said on Sportsday.
“We’ve got a really competitive group of boys and I’m expecting them to be very, very competitive against France.
“They’re notoriously slow starters, by no means will we be scared of them.
“I really fancy us to get something out of this game, I’d be surprised if we didn’t. If we can get something out of this game, it puts us in good stead to get out of a very difficult group.”
The Socceroos face a tough task in reaching the qualification stage, being grouped with France, Peru and Denmark, all of which are ranked in the Top 12 of the FIFA world rankings.
In terms of the starting line-up, McKain feels captain Mile Jedinak is a must start.
“For me he’s gotta play said McKain on Jedinak," he added.
"I’d be very surprised if he didn’t play.”
On the other hand, young gun Daniel Arzani is best suited coming off the bench, according to McKain.
“Physically he’s not quite ready and his impact off the bench is fantastic," he said.
“He’s much better for the team to come on for the last 15-20 minutes when the defenders are a little bit tired and you’ve got someone who’s got courage and tenacity to go at the defenders.
“It’s a massive asset that if he did start it wouldn’t be as valuable.”
Listen to Jon McKain chat about the Socceroos' chances against France in the player below: