Despite being one off, clearly he was not joking about Australia’s intense approach to the match in Austria.

The Socceroos starting line-up provided a clear indication towards van Marwijk’s preferences for who is in his final squad.

The use of a 4-3-3 formation, familiar to supporters from its use under Ange Postecoglou during the Asian Cup, also paid dividends, as Australia ran out 4-0 winners over a poor Czech Republic side.

Playing in front of an intimate and relatively quiet crowd, the opening period was dominated by a Czech side exhibiting crisp passing and dangerous movement to stretch Australia’s defence.

Australia began to find their rhythm as the likes of Mooy and Rogic began to express themselves on the pitch.

Although a dire affair played out in the first half, Australia came out in to the second half clearly working under the instruction to speed up play and penetrate the Czech defensive lines more frequently.

Worries about where the goals will come from in place of Tim Cahill will no doubt have been simmered following Australia’s ruthless finishing in the Czech box. Additionally, Andrew Nabbout’s thumping finish might have Tomi Juric worried about his spot leading the line come the World Cup.

AUSTRALIA

Mathew Ryan 6 

Appears to still be adjusting to van Marwijk’s lack of desire to have his goalkeepers play out from the back, a style he was an advocate for under Ange. Did not have much to deal with in the first half but saved superbly late on to maintain a clean sheet.

Josh Risdon 7.5 

Confidently defended, preventing the more troubling Czech efforts with some last ditch defending. Caused issues with his crossing throughout the afternoon, a factor which resulted in Australia’s opener.

Mark Milligan 7 

Guilty of venturing out too far at times leaving his central partner in trouble, but his passing and combinations with Behich facilitated some of Australia’s best movements.

Trent Sainsbury 7 

Captain for the night and lead effectively through his actions and organisation of the defence. Displayed his superb capability of reading the game through much of his defensive effort. Although one moment of misjudgement towards the end of the first half nearly resulted in a Czech equaliser.

Aziz Behich 7 

Was a nuisance for the Czechs down his flank constantly, presenting himself as one of Australia’s best options in attack. Underwhelming crossing has been a facet of Behich’s game that has caused the ire of Australian fans in the past, as was continued against the Czechs.