The Everton star revealed that the injury was more serious than expected, but he is prepared to be patient to make sure it heals properly.

Cahill - who scored Australia's first ever goal in the World Cup in their opening match against Japan - broke his foot at the beginning of March in a game against Sheffield United.

Now he hopes to be ready in time for the Socceroos - even if only to play as a sub - as preparation for next season with the Toffees.

"It is healing well," he revealed. "The fracture was a lot more serious than a normal break of a fifth metatarsal, but it is just one of those things where the precaution is I am out for the rest of the season.

"I know where I have got to be and that is fit for next season.

"The brace will probably come off in two weeks. I am slowly putting some weight through it, but there is no rush for me.

"The biggest things is making sure I am fit for next season and not doing too much too soon.

"I want to be back well before pre-season. I would like to get some games over the summer to get myself fighting fit and ready to come back for Everton next season."