Radomir Antic has confirmed that Serbia captain Dejan Stankovic will start against Australia.
Skipper fit to face Socceroos in final group game
Serbia coach Radomir Antic has confirmed that captain Dejan Stankovic will start their final group game against Australia.
Stankovic suffered from cramp in his calf during Serbia's 1-0 win over Germany last Friday and was unable to train fully the following day.
But Antic assured Serbia fans the influential midfielder has proved his fitness and will lead their bid to secure a place in the second round on Wednesday.
"He trained normally with the rest of the team and was in top gear this evening so he will definitely start against Australia," Antic said on Tuesday.
"We've had three terrific training sessions in a row, the team has picked itself and I know what starting line-up I will field.
Great opportunity
"It's a great opportunity to reach the knockout stage of the competition and I don't need to put any more pressure on the players than they are already under."
Victory will take Serbia through to the last 16 although a draw could be enough if Germany beat Ghana in the other Group D game at Soccer City.
Australia can still progress, though, so Antic is wary of the Socceroos, who will welcome back star man Tim Cahill from a one-match ban.
"The Australians have everything to play for," he said.
"They will have Tim Cahill back and I expect a difficult match against a very resourceful team."
