All Whites Defenders Poised for Comeback from Injury Before World Cup

Wrexham’s left-back Cacace has been out of action since February due to a hamstring injury but has now resumed full training, Bazeley informed New Zealand news outlet Stuff on Friday.

“He was very close to being included in the squad for the match against Oxford United,” Bazeley shared regarding the midweek fixture. “He’s feeling great and is hopeful of participating this weekend.“

Boxall, who has been recovering from an adductor strain for over a month, is being carefully managed by Minnesota United in the U.S. but has regained fitness for competition.

“If it were the World Cup today, he would definitely be in contention for selection,” he remarked.

Bazeley was also pleased to see captain Chris Wood, the nation’s all-time leading scorer, back in action for Nottingham Forest after a recent injury concern, while several other players are set to return soon.

Midfielder Sarpreet Singh is nearing a comeback from a knee injury with A-League side Wellington Phoenix, and defenders Francis de Vries and Nando Pijnaker are expected to participate in Auckland FC’s finals campaign.

Meanwhile, veteran winger Kosta Barbarouses did not feature in Western Sydney Wanderers’ loss to Wellington last weekend due to a calf issue but is anticipated to be fit for the World Cup.

The All Whites are making their World Cup return for the first time since 2010, beginning their campaign on June 15 against Iran in Los Angeles, followed by matches against Egypt and Belgium in Group G.

Bazeley admitted he is on edge watching his players compete at the club level just seven weeks before the finals.

“It’s a nerve-wracking time; every match is a worry,” he expressed.

“We’ll be feeling this way for the next month until we reach the World Cup.“