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Australia enter the clash on the back of a four-match winless run – their worst streak since 2000 – which has led to calls for the next generation to be given a chance.

Osieck has again opted to stick with his established stars for the trip to Beirut and World Cup qualifier against Jordan.

But the German expects his side to be much improved after their poor display in a 3-1 loss to Scotland in mid-August.

"They were in pre-season (then), most of the major leagues hadn't started so you couldn't expect a lot," Osieck said.

"But right now, we are in the position so three weeks after that they have improved, they could work on their fitness, on their playing, on their technique.

"I think we're going to have a different team than what we had in that game in August."

Following their first ever meeting against Lebanon, the Socceroos travel to Jordan for a crucial Group B World Cup qualifier.

Draws against Oman and Japan have left Australia third in the group in the fourth round of qualifying.

Osieck believes the Lebanon encounter will hold his team in good stead for the trip to Amman.

"It's definitely a good situation to rehearse here. Conditions are similar, their team plays a similar style so I think that helps to get an idea of what we have to expect in Jordan," he said.

"In Jordan... we have to be at our best in order to gain the points that we need."

Socceroos captain Lucas Neill said the meeting against Jordan gave his team a chance to stamp their authority in the group.

"It's huge. We've not had an easy start," he said.

"I think we've gained two valuable points but we really need now to play to our best or near best to try and give ourselves the best chance of three points because it sends a little bit of a statement to the rest of the group.

"It gives us a chance to pull away a little bit and keep on the heels of Japan, who have obviously got off to a fantastic start."

   ___   >>> click here to see the roos train in beirut