Milligan’s recent injuries and on-going transfer speculation has hit the former Sydney FC star’s confidence, says Under 23 coach Arnold, but he says his currently club-less skipper will return next week “fighting fit” for a training camp in Nth Queensland.

“Mark has had to mentally freshen up a bit. And he’s lacked a bit of confidence over the last few months but also physically I think he was carrying a few injuries he wasn’t telling people about,” Arnold said today.

Milligan was the star of the Olyroos historic first ever qualification through the AFC, capping off a memorable campaign with a goal in North Korea to seal Australia’s Olympic qualification fate.

The defender departed Sydney FC at the end of the last season in slightly less than amicable circumstances and has since been looking for a club overseas with his new agent Tom Brookes.

However an injury ruled Milligan, 22, out of the last Olyroo match – a 1-1 draw with Mexico two months ago.

“But mentally he’s back on track now. He’s fit,” assured Arnold.

“He was down the Institute [AIS] and he did a bit of mechanical work on his body to try and fix up his constant problems in his leg, which have come from his lower back.

“But we expect him in camp next week in Townsville for seven days to start our program and I expect him to be fighting fit and ready to go.”