Players

Van Marwijk adopts patient approach with Caltex Socceroos

2 min read 24 March 2018

Caltex Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk admits it will "take time" to implement his plans following a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Norway on Saturday morning (AEDT).

LA Galaxy striker Ola Kamara netted a hat-trick to lead the hosts to victory in Oslo in what was Van Marwijk's first match in charge.

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Jackson Irvine had headed Australia into an early lead, but struggles on set-pieces and loose passing at the back hamstrung the Aussies' attempt at a fightback.

"It's always difficult in the first game. You have to get to know each other in everything," Van Marwijk told Fox Sports.

"Today it was clear we are not ready yet and we need time to develop this team.

"[Two goals] are individual faults. That's a shame because it has nothing to do with how you want to play.

"But also in the way of playing we have to improve."

Tom Rogic was among a string of second-half substitutes.

Despite the result, Van Marwijk has been impressed by his players' attitude in camp as they now look to regroup for a second friendly against Colombia in London on Wednesday morning (AEDT).

"We are starting the preparation and everybody is full of energy and wants to improve," the Dutchman said.

"That's positive. But I don't like to lose and 4-1 is too much."