SYDNEY: Australia`s star midfielder Tim Cahill has pulled out of this week`s friendly with Slovenia due to injury, team officials said on Tuesday.

Everton`s Cahill and JEF United defender Mark Milligan did not travel to Slovenia with the rest of the squad and will not be replaced, the officials said.

"Tim Cahill and Mark Milligan did not travel to Slovenia with the Qantas Socceroos due to injury," a statement said.

"After consultation with the players and their clubs after the weekend, acting Qantas Socceroos head coach Han Berger decided they would not be required in camp."

Wednesday`s game is Australia`s first since bowing out of the group stages of the World Cup in South Africa, and marks Berger`s debut as coach after Pim Verbeek`s contract expired.

BDST: 1321HRS, August 10, 2010