Injury curse strikes again

Bruce Djite is a confirmed non-starter for today's World Cup qualifier against China after suffering a hamstring injury, while doing a simple training drill on Tuesday.

Bruce Djite is a confirmed non-starter for today's World Cup qualifier against China after suffering a hamstring injury, while doing a simple training drill on Tuesday.

The Adelaide United striker's withdrawal make its six players in all that have been forced out of the match because of injury, further disrupting Pim Verbeek's preparations for the match.

Djite, who was impressive in his debut for the senior squad in the second half against Singapore, was a strong contender for a start against China, following the late withdrawal by Scott McDonald.

The unfortunate incident came while doing participating in a regular shooting drill and he is likely to be out of action from 4-6 weeks, meaning he will at least miss two of Adelaide's AFC Champions League matches.

Verbeek, who himself was ill in the morning during a press conference with Australian journalists, was able to take training in the afternoon and will be on the sidelines for the match.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has sent his warm wishes to the team ahead of the match, acknowledging the team will have to overcome significant hurdles to get the right result from the match.

The Socceroos match against China, will kick-off at 5.00pm AEDT and will be telecast live by Fox Sports 2, with coverage starting at 4.30pm.

There will also be a live commentary of the game, right here on www.football australia.com.au from 4.30pm AEDT.