19/11/2008 10:04 AM
The Socceroos have publicly shown their support for team-mate Craig Moore who is recovering in Brisbane from surgery for testicular cancer.
The Australians donned training shirts with 'Moore' and '3' on their backs at the team's official pre-match training session ahead of Thursday morning's (AEDT) World Cup qualifier against Bahrain in Manama.
Moore, 32, underwent surgery last week after playing for Hyundai A-League club Queensland Roar against Melbourne Victory two weekends ago.
The news was a blow for Australia coach Pim Verbeek, who had selected Moore for his return to international duty in the 4-0 win over Qatar in October after an eight-month absence from the Socceroos.
Socceroos captain Lucas Neill said the team was thinking about the popular defender as it prepares for its final World Cup qualifier of 2008.
"We were all shocked by Craig's diagnosis," Neill said.
"But knowing him, he is strong physically and mentally. With the support of his family, friends and team-mates we know he will be up to the challenge of beating it."
"The lads wanted to do something to show Craig that we are all thinking about him, and wearing training shirts with his name and number on the back was our way of doing that."
"We wish Craig a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back with us soon."
Australia currently sits top of its group after two matches, with the top two after eight games to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Verbeek is yet to name his starting line-up but all players present in Bahrain reportedly trained comfortably.