By his own admission Graham Arnold is getting goosebumps as he prepares for his shot at Asian Cup redemption.
Arnold will lead Australia into the tournament for the second time on Sunday when the Socceroos begin their title defence against Jordan in the United Arab Emirates city of Al Ain.
The 2007 Asian Cup was largely a disaster for the rookie coach as his side exited in the quarter-finals to Japan.
Over a decade later, Arnold is back, and he's expecting a much different outcome for both him and the team starting with an emphatic opening display against the Jordanians.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"These boys are ready," Arnold said.
"I'm expecting a great performance and a great scoreline."
Australia enter the tournament without injured trio Aaron Mooy, Daniel Arzani and Martin Boyle while experienced winger Mathew Leckie is unlikely to feature in any of the group stage matches as he recovers from a hamstring strain.
It's also Australia's first tournament in over a decade without the presence of either record goalscorer Tim Cahill and midfield general Mile Jedinak.
Arnold is viewing those absences as an opportunity for Australia's new generation of players including rising stars such as Awer Mabil, Andrew Nabbout and Chris Ikonomidis to show their talent to the world.
"I get goosebumps now thinking about it because it's like we've got some great players," Arnold said.
"I do believe quite a number don't realise how good this team is and how good this team will be."
Jordan did beat Australia at the start of the last World Cup qualifying period at home but are on to their sixth coach in less that four years in former Belgium assistant coach Vital Borkelmans.
His surprising omission of star striker Hamza Al Dardour has raised eyebrows, putting a lot of pressure on 21-year-old winger Musa Al-Taamari to provide an attacking threat against the Socceroos.
Arnold says he's aware of the Cyprus-based Al-Taamari, who has scored seven goals in 11 league matches for Apoel Nicosia since making a move there in June.
"We will nullify their strengths, we work on that the day before the game and expose their weaknesses," Arnold said.
"The commitment to each other is there, no excuses and I can't wait to get started."
