Kewell out of Socceroos' squad

Harry Kewell pulled out of the Australia team to face Ireland at Lansdowne Road tonight one hour before kick-off.

Kewell is believed to have suffered an Achilles injury today and he was flying back to England while his team-mates attempted to add Brian Kerr’s side to their impressive list of recent scalps.

Kewell’s withdrawal might have come as some relief to Stockport goalkeeper Nick Colgan, who was given his first full start.

Kerr, who began the night unbeaten in his first six games in charge, fulfilled his promise to name a strong side with one eye on next month’s crucial European Championship qualifiers against Russia and Switzerland.

Damien Duff partnered Robbie Keane up front with Birmingham’s Clinton Morrison - finally back in an international squad after a succession of injuries - settling for a place as substitute.

West Brom goalkeeper Joe Murphy was set to be given his big international chance as he was preferred to number one Shay Given on the bench.

Kewell’s withdrawal naturally hit Australia boss Frank Farina hard but he still had Kewell’s former Leeds team-mate Mark Viduka lead his strike-force.

Blackburn new boy Brett Emerton was given another chance to continue where he left off from his glowing performance against England in the 3-1 win at Upton Park.