Paying respect to the past was a major theme at the launch with the 2014 strip bringing back numerous aspects of the kit worn by Rale Rasic's historic 1974 team.

A green Johnny collar gives the first whiff of nostalgia as references to the old strip come in thick and fast.

Inside the back of the neck are the words, "We Socceroos Can Do The Impossible", quoting the words of Peter Wilson, captain of the 1974 Socceroos squad.

The shorts of the new kit remain green whilst the socks are returning to the traditional white, after the last two World Cup campaigns saw yellow socks being worn.

The Australian coat of arms on the chest of the jersey sits within a shield that replicates the shape of the crest worn on the jerseys at the 1974 tournament to complete the historic semblance and fulfil the current Socceroos' stated desire to "feel the history of our country."

The new Australian kit took its inspiration from the historic 1974 Socceroos, the first time the country qualified for the World Cup finals, when they were held in West Germany 
©Hulton Archive/Getty Images


"The Socceroos will take on the world in Brazil determined to represent every Australian by showing the same spirit that binds the fabric of our country," said Socceroos Coach Postecoglou.

"The 1974 team were trailblazers for our country and the 2014 Socceroos will wear a strip that will help inspire our players to represent the values of Australia by paying tribute to the 1974 team."

To bring the kit into the 21st Century, designers at Nike have included the brands signature laser vents on the centre back of the shorts to aid in cooling and allow for moisture management.

The fit is also slimmer and more tailored to the body, based on fit research, with a cut specifically designed to aid movement and comfort.

Mark Bresciano (right) and Michael Zullo were joined by Socceroos legends from the 1960s onwards at the launch of the new kit in Walsh Bay, Sydney ©Getty Images



On the new design, Martin Lotti, Nike Football creative director said: "In addition to providing the leading performance benefits and innovations, our aim is to celebrate each country's national pride.

"We looked at the way Australia qualified for their first ever World Cup in 1974.

"These same determined qualities endure today and we wanted to reflect them in a kit that both celebrates Australia's history and inspires the team that will play in Brazil."

The new kit is due to become available to buy on Thursday (February 20) from selected retailers with the adult shirt set to cost around AUD100 ($90/£54/€66).

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