Soccer: Top-level experience in All Whites squad

Ryan Nelsen

Ryan Nelsen and Danny Hay will give the All Whites much-needed defensive experience when the national side play Australia in London next month.

New coach Ricki Herbert yesterday named 18 players for the match at Fulham's Craven Cottage on June 9 and included the towering defenders, who both boast English premier league experience.

Although Herbert is in no hurry to name his starting XI for the one-off match being used by the Socceroos as a crucial part of their Confederations Cup preparation, it seems likely Hay, who has come back into the international frame after announcing his retirement at that level, will partner Nelsen at the heart of the defence. Even if he's not in the starting lineup his experience will be invaluable.

If Hay is included, it could be bad news for Waikato stalwart Che Bunce, who was one of a very few who impressed at last year's ill-fated Oceania Nations Cup in Adelaide. Bunce was named in the squad but any appearance might be from the substitute's bench.

It could also mean a switch from central defender to right back for US-based Steven Old. Tony Lochhead is certain to start at left back after his strong showing as New Zealand's best player in Adelaide.

"Danny Hay is included because I don't see his fitness as an issue," said Herbert. "It is exciting to think about him and Ryan Nelsen playing together. Che Bunce is also part of that mix and the decision on just who will start won't be made until we have had some time in London."

Of the decision to include Waitakere defender/midfielder Craig Wylie, Herbert said he gave some balance to the team with his left side ability.

"At 21 years, I don't classify him as being young. We want to see what he can do in this environment. While he often plays at left back, he can play further forward."

Mark Paston, who is likely to start in goal, is expected back in Auckland in the next few days and will be monitored by New Zealand Soccer's goalkeeping coach Mick Leonard as he recovers from injury.

Ivan Vicelich seems certain to spearhead the midfield and is likely to be joined by British-based Leo Bertos and David Mulligan. Vaughan Coveny is set to lead the attack in a 4-3-3 combination with his support from Chris Killen who, like Hay, did not play in Adelaide, and Brent Fisher.

Rory Fallon's hoped-for selection remains on hold while the paperwork is considered by Fifa.

All Whites v Australia

* Goalkeepers: Mark Paston (Walsall), Glen Moss (NZ Knights).

* Defenders: Che Bunce (Cambridge), Danny Hay (NZ Knights), Ryan Nelsen (Blackburn Rovers, capt), Tony Lochhead (University of Santa Barbara), Craig Wylie (Waitakere City), Steven Old (St Johns University).

* Midfielders: Ivan Vicelich (Roda JC), Tim Brown (Richmond Kickers), Raf de Gregorio (HJK Helsinki), Michael Wilson (Minnesota Thunder), Leo Bertos (Rochdale), David Mulligan (Doncaster Rovers).

* Strikers: Vaughan Coveny (South Melbourne), Brent Fisher (FC Energie Cottbus), Chris Killen (Oldham Athletic), Shane Smeltz (Wimbledon).