According to sources in the Socceroo camp, Covic's injury – a corked thigh – looked worse than it really was when he left the pitch during Thursday's scratch match at training.

The news comes as a huge relief for Pim Verbeek with Mark Schwarzer tipped to arrive barely 48 hours before kick off.

The question that still remains unanswered is: will Verbeek – who is keeping his keeper cards close to his chest – use an A-League custodian or rely on the tried and tested Mark Schwarzer?

Covic, the 32-year-old former Hammarby keeper and number three at the 2006 World Cup, has trained very well this week as has talented Mariner Danny Vukovic.

The Jets' keeper's injury was the big news out of Socceroos' training yesterday morning. Fellow Jets star James Holland slid into Covic and a loud crack was heard when the two collided during the 11 v 11 session

Covic immediately left the pitch unaided and did not return. He returned to the team hotel for treatment that afternoon.