Crystal Palace captain Mile Jedinak has been named the Australian national team captain for this week's international friendly with Ecuador.
The 29-year old midfielder will take the captain's armband for Wednesday night's (Thursday morning AEDT) meeting with the South American nation at Millwall's The Den in London.
Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglou was absolutely delighted to appoint Jedinak as skipper and indicated that the role could be his for the foreseeable future as the squad prepares for the World Cup.
"It's a reward for him. He's playing in one of the toughest leagues in the world, captaining his club side and playing well," said Postecoglou of Jedinak who will be making his 43rd Socceroos appearance.
"He's an outstanding candidate to lead us tomorrow night. Beyond that Mile is in the same boat as everyone else - he needs to continue to play well and continue to show form.
"From my perspective he's one of the key players going into the World Cup because of his experience and the fact he's one of the few we have playing at the very highest level.
"He's a worthy candidate for the captaincy and I'm looking forward to seeing him lead against Ecuador."
Jedinak, who spent time with Central Coast Mariners, Genclerbirligi and Antalyaspor before joining Palace in 2011, added: "It's probably the hugest, biggest honour you could have as a footballer, captaining your country.
"It's going to be a massive for me and something I definitely won't take lightly. It is something I'm really looking forward to."
