'We have freedom to express ourselves': Kruse relishing Arnie's attacking enterprise

Robbie Kruse says the Caltex Socceroos are operating with greater freedom and flexibility across the front third, attributes that could reap rewards in tomorrow night’s friendly with Korea Republic.

The 30-year-old believes tactical shifts made by Graham Arnold allows Australia’s attackers a licence to strut their stuff going forward and will benefit the team’s range of firepower.

Arnold’s side get their first chance to showcase this enterprising attacking style against Korea Republic in Brisbane, in what is the team’s first match on home soil in over a year.

“We have various goal scorers. The last World Cup cycle the game was based upon the number nine scoring the goals predominantly being offside and being there for the cross,” Kruse said.

“Now we’re a lot more flexible in the way we play. We have a structure but we have freedom to express ourselves, rotate positions and across the front line we’re really narrow and we get into goal scoring positions more than what we used to.

“It started perfectly last game and I think we’ll continue that tomorrow.”

READ: Goals, pace and quality: Arnold tips front line to fire against Korea Republic
READ: Match Preview: Caltex Socceroos v Korea Republic

The Bochum attacker also revealed the kinship and morale of the Caltex Socceroos has blossomed to new heights in recent times, hailing the arrival of new faces as an inspiration.

“We’ve generally had good atmosphere here amongst the playing group but it’s really been amplified since the new coaching staff have come in,” he said.

“With a new coach you get a new philosophy, new kind of atmosphere around the team and it’s been first class since Arnie’s come on board.

“I think the biggest thing away from the field [and] also on the field is the excitement that’s back in the team.

“Every time we put on the jersey it’s the biggest honour but you have to be able to enjoy the moment also and we’ve really honed in on that in the last few camps.

“It was reflected in the last game with the performance and I’m positive we’ll do that again tomorrow.”

The Caltex Socceroos’ match against Korea Republic is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland in partnership with Brisbane City Council through Brisbane Marketing.