“I was very impressed with what he did at the World Cup last year,” Patikas told au.fourfourtwo.com today.

“It'll be very interesting to see how he plays after not being seen much over the last 12 months. That'll be a big advantage for the Socceroos as Argentina don't know what to expect.”

Patikas, capped 27 times for the Socceroos in the 80s and a star at AEK Athens, added that tonight's game will see a different type of Socceroo approach.

And he expects a top class performance from the rising stars like FC Nurnberg's Kennedy, nicknamed Jesus by fans for his Christ-like looks.

“Kennedy and other fringe Socceroo candidates will be playing with 100% intensity because they want to prove themselves," he said.

"Sometimes, when the Kewells and Vidukas aren't there, it's a good thing. It gives these guys a chance.”

Patikas added that Luke Wilkshire will be an important cog in stopping the Argentines.

He added: “Everyone's knocking Wilkshire, but he's a good man to man marker and if given the job on Messi would be ideal for that type of role."

The former Socceroo attacking midfielder added the home ground advantage should be worth “at least a goal”.

“Argentina has come here with not much time to acclimatise, so that will be an advantage," he said. "It's going to be a top class game.”