Bosnich set to complete comeback
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Mark Bosnich will line up against the Roar. (Getty Images: Gareth Cattermole, file photo)
Disgraced former Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Bosnich will play his first professional match in almost seven years in the A-League on Sunday.
Once the highest-paid goalkeeper in the world, the 36-year-old former Manchester United player will turn out for Central Coast against Queensland Roar, having signed a seven-week deal with the Mariners.
His previous appearance in top-flight competition was for English Premier League side Chelsea in November 2001, before his career imploded following a failed drugs test and nine-month ban.
Bosnich replaces the suspended Danny Vukovic and is not making any bold predictions.
"I'm humbly anticipating a game this week, and that's it," Bosnich said.
"I don't really know what to expect. I'm very much looking forward to the game, I'm ready.
"It's a big game for us, we need a win and I'm confident we can get one."
The Mariners were beaten grand finalists last season, but have just one point from two games after losing to Sydney FC 3-2 last weekend.
Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna said Bosnich is ready to perform.
"He's been around a long time and knows what to expect," McKinna said.
"Mark has done everything asked of him at training and deserves this chance."
Bosnich has already been linked with expansion A-League side Gold Coast when it joins the competition next season.
Former Socceroos coach Frank Farina, now in charge of the Roar, said this week a fit and in-form Bosnich could still play at international level.
"Goalkeepers are a different breed to outfield players," Farina said.
"We saw Dino Zoff win a World Cup at 40. Mark needs time to get back into the rhythm and routine of football but he's still got it.
"I think once he's back in top condition and form, there's no reason why he couldn't be regarded as one of the best in the league.
"He certainly commands the backline and organises the defence."
Meanwhile Roar defender Josh McCloughan is expected to miss Sunday's match because of a hip flexor injury.
Former Socceroo Danny Tiatto is recovering well from a calf problem and should be fit to play.
-AFP
