Soccer: Australia deny player rebellion

JOHANNESBURG - Football Federation Australia boss Ben Buckley has emphatically denied rumours of a Socceroos player mutiny aimed at Pim Verbeek, or any internal team disharmony.

Buckley described as "nonsense" reports there were problems in the camp following the Socceroos' 4-0 drubbing by Germany on Monday (NZT).

He denied claims that several senior players were unhappy with Verbeek's tactics and selections, and had approached him to voice their concerns.

"It's insulting to the professionalism of the players that there is speculation on speculation," Buckley said on Wednesday.

"It's disrespectful to the players. In no way is there any form of disunity."

When asked whether any players had approached him and voiced concerns about Verbeek's questionable tactics in the Germany match, Buckley said: "Absolutely none whatsoever."

"All the speculation is just speculation on a very ill-informed rumour."

The outcry in Australia over the team's loss - and particularly the meek manner of it - has prompted wider speculation from media pundits and ex-Socceroos that there could be team harmony issues.

Former Socceroos goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac hinted at internal problems by saying players didn't seem to be playing for each other in the Germany match.

Ex-Socceroo and media commentator Craig Foster even went as far as to call for Verbeek's sacking immediately.

But Buckley stood by Verbeek, and ruled out any summary dismissal of the Dutchman during the tournament.

"I have the utmost confidence in the team and Pim and his staff," Buckley said.

"I don't comment on coach's tactics or coach's selections. But what I can say is the team is 100 per cent absolutely focused on this weekend's result."

Verbeek has already announced he will quit as Australian coach following the tournament.

The Socceroos must win their Group D clash with Ghana in Rustenburg on Saturday to stay alive in the tournament.

- AAP