Gielnik eyes Jamaica start as Milicic keeps Matildas guessing

Emily Gielnik hopes she has done enough to remain in Ante Milicic’s plans for Jamaica – but has no idea what the Australia boss has up his sleeve for Wednesday morning’s final Group C encounter.

The 27-year-old winger made her World Cup debut and maiden appearance at a major tournament in last Friday morning’s epic 3-2 comeback win over Brazil.

And it had been a long time coming for the ex-Brisbane Roar, Liverpool and Urawa Red Diamonds star, who missed out on Australia’s 2015 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games squads in heartbreaking circumstances.

THE EQUATION: What the Matildas need to do
PREVIEW: Matildas face Jamaica for the first time

Win a Westfield Matildas Jersey


Gielnik was an unused substitute during the Matildas' opening-day defeat to Italy but supported Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord on the right of a front three against the South American giants in Montpellier.

The Victorian – who became renowned as the Westfield W-League’s ultimate super sub over her decade-long stint with the Roar – is hungry for another starting berth against the Reggae Girlz, but will be content with whatever role she is handed for Australia’s final Group C clash.

 “Hopefully I’ve done my bit for the team and I think whether I start or whether I come off the bench, or don’t play at all, I’m still part of this team,” Gielnik said.

FOORD: How chat with Kerr sparked sensational Brazil comeback
ROESTBAKKEN: 'It was unbelievable'
MILLIGAN: Socceroos skipper witnesses awesome moment at team hotel

Matildas Grenoble training
'My role is important regardless of what position I’m in against Jamaica', says Gielnik

“My role is important regardless of what position I’m in against Jamaica. Obviously, I’d be delighted to say the least if I do get another opportunity to start.

“I just need to make sure I do everything I can in training in the lead up to that."

How to Watch FIFA Women's World Cup 2019


Gielnik added that she was happy to be kept guessing by head coach Milicic.

“I don’t know what he’s going to go for, and I don’t know what his game plan is for Jamaica, but regardless of that situation I’m here to do my bit for the team.”

OPPONENT WATCH: Girelli hat-trick sends Italy into Round of 16
WORLD CUP HUB: All your Matildas content in one place

Upcoming Match | FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019™ – Group C

Jamaica v Australia
Date: Wednesday, 19 June 2019 (AEST)
Venue: Stade des Alpes, Grenoble
Kick-off: 5.00am AEST (9.00pm local time, Tuesday 18 June)

Click below to #GetOnside for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ in Australia

getonsidethin
Visit page
This article was originally published on the CommBank Matildas website.
Close