Two of Australia’s group games will be played in the city with Chinese police recently claiming they have foiled an attack by a terror cell.

Speaking from the Olyroos’ training base ahead of Thursday’s final warm up match against Korea, Carney said the players’ focus was firmly on football.

He said: “I have read about it (the terror threat) but the boys aren’t really concerned about that.” The Sheffield United man’s understanding was that the issue was now ‘clear and over with’.

Carney is also confident that air quality and pollution won’t damage Australia’s chances in China. He said: “I have heard it’s not too bad.”

The former Sydney FC will be handed an attacking role by coach Graham Arnold and he cannot wait to get started.

"I am looking forward to it (the role) and I think it will suit me better."

Carney revealed that Arnold had asked him some time ago to be one of the three over age players and that he had gained a real buzz from that knowledge.

He said: “This is a chance in a lifetime and we would love to get a medal. We are definitely aiming for a medal. You get through the group stage and anything can happen.”

Carney said Sheffield United coach Kevin Blackwell and Arnold had a good understanding and that the Yorkshire club had understood his desire to take part in the Games.

The player hopes a good Olympic tournament will help his chances of gaining a regular slot at Bramall Lane. He said: “After the Olympics with this heat I will be really fit.”

Carney feels a good start to the tournament is crucial, potentially allowing a more relaxed side to go out and really go at Argentina in the second match.

There is respect for Messi and company but not fear. The midfielder said last September’s friendly (a 1-0 defeat in Melbourne) proved that Australia could live in such company.

Argentina are the group favourites but Carney is quite happy to go to China without anyone outside Australia shouting too loudly about the men in green and gold’s chances.

“I would rather go into tournaments as underdogs. We went to the Asian Cup as favourites and we didn’t deliver," he said.