Tough-tackling and uncompromising but also calm and composed under pressure, Moore's commanding presence at the back has long made him an essential component of any Socceroo line-up. Now in the twilight of his playing days Moore seems set to draw the curtain on a 15-year international career but is looking to make a final impression at South Africa 2010.
Blessed with a football brain that reads that game expertly, a fit and focussed Craig Moore alongside captain Lucas Neill in the heart of the Socceroo defence would be a godsend to coach Pim Verbeek. However with his A-League season ending in January, and a brief sojourn at Greek club Kavala aborted after less than two months, question marks remain about Moore’s 34-year-old legs. However given the many resolute performances over such a long career it would be foolish to doubt the Socceroo hard-man.
Debuting way back in 1995 against Ghana, one of Australia’s Group D opponents at South Africa 2010, Moore has achieved much while donning the green and gold jersey. Now in his fourth FIFA World Cup™ campaign, Moore has worn the captain’s armband, notably at the FIFA Confederations Cup Germany 2005. He played in all four matches at Germany 2006 performing with typical consistency, but perhaps will best be remembered for scoring from the penalty spot in the 2-2 draw against Croatia that helped seal Australia’s progression to the knockout stage for the first time.
At club level Moore played over a decade with Glasgow Rangers, despite injuries threatening to halt his career more than once. Two seasons with Newcastle United in the English Premier League preceded a move back to Australia in 2007 with Brisbane Roar where he continued to perform with distinction.
