Sainsbury to lead Socceroos against France as Jedinak dropped

Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak is set to be dropped to the bench for Australia’s opening match of the 2018 World Cup against France tonight.

Fairfax Media understands that defender Trent Sainsbury is primed to wear the captain's armband in Kazan  in place of Jedinak.

The 33-year-old Jedinak is set to be replaced by Massimo Luongo in the starting side to face France.

Only a late turnaround from Bert van Marwijk after the Socceroos' final training session on Friday will see the veteran elevated back into the first 11.

Jedinak did not start in either of Australia’s warm-up games, against the Czech Republic and Hungary. He was rested in the  former having played for Aston Villa just a few days before.

Tellingly, Jedinak was a late cancellation at Australia’s pre-match press conference, swapped with Matt Leckie at late notice.

During Australia’s training sessions in Kazan, Luongo was partnered regularly with defensive midfielder Aaron Mooy during drills instead of Jedinak.