Kewell tussle on again
By RAY GATT

27oct99

SOCCER Australia is headed for a confrontation with English Premier League leaders Leeds United over Harry Kewell's availability for next month's home series against Brazil.

Kewell is contracted to play in two matches against the South Americans at Stadium Australia (November 14) and the MCG (17), but Leeds say he can only play in Sydney.

Manager David O'Leary wants his young star back in England for a league match against Bradford City on November 20.

Kewell, who has been in superb goalscoring touch, has become the face of a major advertising campaign for the Brazil matches, featuring in television and newspaper promotions.

SA is determined to cash in on the series and will make every attempt to convince Leeds to soften their attitude.

As it stands, the head body can invoke a FIFA ruling which says Leeds must release Kewell for both internationals, but may not be prepared to go that far.

According to Kewell's Australian manager, IMG, he is signed up for both games.
It is understood national coach Frank Farina, who was unavailable for comment, has spoken twice to O'Leary in the past two days.
Interestingly, Farina only recently returned from Europe where he held talks with a number of clubs, including Leeds, regarding the release of Australian overseas-based players for international matches.